Meet Todd
Todd Shelton’s story is rooted in Madison County. His life has been shaped by hard work, service to others, and a belief that local communities grow stronger when people step up to lead.
Todd grew up outside Alexandria, Indiana, near Anderson. Like many families in the area, his life was shaped by the manufacturing industry and the strength of the surrounding community. After graduating from Highland High School, Todd worked a series of jobs, and like thousands of Hoosiers, Todd experienced firsthand how decisions made far from home can affect families and entire communities. There, he worked as a production worker, served as a committeeman, and sat on the bargaining committee.
That future was cut short when Magnequench closed and moved operations overseas. Like thousands of Hoosiers, Todd experienced firsthand the consequences of trade policies and corporate decisions that left working families behind. Rather than giving up, he transferred to another GM plant in Fort Wayne, determined to keep moving forward.
Service & Sacrifice
Not long after, Todd made a decision that would define the rest of his life: he joined the United States military. Todd served honorably until he was injured and medically discharged. Today, he is a disabled veteran who understands the long-term costs of service, both visible and invisible, personally. His experience navigating the VA system gives him a deep respect for veterans and a clear understanding of how government and healthcare programs can succeed or fail the people they are meant to serve. Those experiences strengthened his belief that government should serve people efficiently, responsibly, and with compassion.
Educator & Entrepreneur
After leaving the military, Todd used his Chapter 31 benefits and the GI Bill to earn both his undergraduate and master’s degrees. Education became a second calling. For more than a decade, Todd has taught technology, web development, and application design at Indiana University Indianapolis. His work focuses on practical, job-ready skills and project-based learning. He has helped students from all backgrounds gain the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly changing economy.
Outside the classroom, Todd is a father, an entrepreneur, and a small business owner. He and his family operate a local company that produces freeze-dried foods and handmade goods, which they sell at Indiana markets and community events. He understands firsthand what it means to manage supply costs, regulations, and rising prices.
Every day, Todd works with students to solve problems, manage complex projects, and prepare for successful careers. Those same practical problem-solving skills are ones he would bring to county government.
A Leader in Our Community
Todd is also deeply involved in his community, serving in leadership roles with local sports organizations and volunteer groups. Whether organizing youth programs, running events, or mentoring others, he believes strong communities don’t just happen they are built by people who show up.
Todd has also successfully run tech and web conferences and free community workshops for years, helping connect people with real opportunities in the tech field.
Todd Shelton is running for Madison County Commissioner District 1 because he believes local government should be practical, transparent, and focused on delivering results for the people it serves.
He understands that county government isn’t about political headlines. It’s about maintaining roads and bridges, improving drainage and infrastructure, supporting responsible economic development, managing taxpayer dollars wisely, and making decisions that strengthen our communities for future generations.
Todd believes the best leaders listen first, work hard, and never forget who they serve. That’s the approach he’ll bring to the Madison County Commission.