Proven Leadership. Real Results.

 At Shelton Consulting Solutions, we believe the best way to understand our work is to see the outcomes. Here are a few examples of how consulting, strategy, and advising have created measurable impact across government, business, and community. 

• Challenge: As Mayor of Cookeville, Ricky Shelton faced the complex task of guiding one of Tennessee’s fastest-growing communities while balancing infrastructure, growth, and fiscal responsibility.
• Approach: Through collaboration with city departments, regional development leaders, and state officials, Ricky advanced a strategy focused on infrastructure modernization, economic development, and quality-of-life improvements.
• Result: Cookeville experienced record growth, expanded its economic footprint, and strengthened regional partnerships — all while preserving fiscal stability.

• The Challenge:
  When Ricky was first elected, there was no established social media presence to effectively connect with constituents. Traditional communication channels were slow, limited, and often left citizens in the dark about critical issues and community initiatives.
• The Strategy:
  Recognizing the power of digital platforms, Ricky launched official Facebook and Instagram pages with the goal of creating direct, real-time communication between local government and the people it serves. My approach prioritized strategic content planning, transparency, and responsiveness to ensure messages were both timely and trustworthy.
• The Execution:
  • Developed and managed a consistent posting strategy blending announcements, behind-the-scenes updates, and personal connection.
     
  • Utilized social platforms during community disasters to deliver urgent, life-saving information quickly and accurately.
     
  • Shared updates on policy decisions, community projects, and local events, ensuring residents were always up to date.
     
  • Engaged followers through two-way communication, fostering a sense of accessibility and trust.
     
• The Results:
  • Grew platforms into the largest social media presence for an elected official in Middle Tennessee.
     
  • Established social media as the primary channel of communication during emergencies and local crises.
     
  • Built lasting trust, recognition, and credibility with constituents.
     
  • Created a model now used to advise other elected officials on how and why to leverage social media effectively for both communication and community engagement.
     
• Takeaway:
  Social media is no longer optional for public leaders—it is a strategic necessity. By using digital platforms with intention, elected officials can build trust, increase visibility, and ensure that their communities stay informed and connected.

 We built the largest social media presence for an elected official in Middle Tennessee—turning Facebook and Instagram into vital tools for trust, visibility, and real-time community communication 

• Challenge: Cookeville had no signature community-wide Independence Day celebration, leaving an opportunity to unite residents and showcase the community.
• Approach: Ricky founded Red White & BOOM, creating a public-private partnership that engaged businesses, civic groups, and volunteers. He designed and executed an event strategy that combined entertainment, tourism promotion, and community pride.
• Result: The event has grown into one of Tennessee’s largest 4th of July celebrations, drawing tens of thousands annually, strengthening community spirit, and boosting the local economy.

• Challenge: Local governments and organizations often struggle to align interests across multiple jurisdictions.
• Approach: Ricky leveraged his vast network across Tennessee and the South to bring together mayors, county executives, development districts, and business leaders. By focusing on shared priorities — infrastructure, economic development, and workforce — he facilitated collaboration that advanced long-term solutions.
• Result: Stronger intergovernmental partnerships, improved regional coordination, and enhanced opportunities for economic growth.

• Challenge: Cookeville Regional Medical Center needed long-term strategic direction to remain competitive in an evolving healthcare environment.
• Approach: As Chief Strategy Officer, Ricky developed a comprehensive growth plan that included physician recruitment, service line expansion, and alignment with regional healthcare needs.
• Result: The hospital advanced its reputation as a regional healthcare leader, expanded critical services, and positioned itself for sustained success.

At every level — government, business, healthcare, or community — our consulting and strategy work helps leaders create results that last.