President/CEO, American International Sports Tours (AIST)

Chad Wilkinson graduated from Avila University in 1997 with a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing. A standout multi-sport athlete, he excelled as a starting pitcher for the Avila Eagles for three years and also competed on the basketball team during his final semester. Before Avila, Chad attended Lindenwood University, where he played both football and baseball before transferring to Avila to further pursue his baseball career. During his three seasons with the Eagles, his teams consistently earned 45+ wins per year. He later spent six years coaching collegiate baseball before shifting his full focus to building AIST.

Chad’s involvement with international sports began in 1996. He played two seasons of professional baseball in Antwerp, Belgium (1998–99) and one season in Brisbane, Australia (1998–99). During this time, he also began coaching and organizing sports tours throughout Western Europe, gaining extensive experience in international travel, logistics, and cross-cultural sports exchange.

Under Chad’s leadership, AIST has grown into one of the most respected and competitive international sports travel organizations, offering high-level tours for both teams and individual select players. AIST teams regularly find themselves competing in championship games abroad. This success is driven by the talented athletes recruited each year and the exceptional coaches who support AIST by recommending players and sharing opportunities. Chad remains deeply grateful for their partnership and trust.

From the very beginning, Chad has made it a priority to personally travel with teams whenever possible—to meet every athlete, ensure smooth operations, and help create unforgettable experiences. As AIST has continued to expand, so has Chad’s family. Today, he balances his passion for travel with time at home with his wife, Katie, and daughters, Eliana and Savannah. AIST now has an experienced staff who share Chad’s dedication to providing outstanding support and care for every traveler.

A message from Chad:
“I love traveling with our groups and being there to help in any way I can. More importantly, I enjoy meeting the athletes and families who choose to travel with AIST. I want everyone to feel comfortable, welcomed, and confident that they're gaining a new family of friends while creating memories that will last a lifetime. While I’ve cut back my travel to spend more time with my wife Katie and our daughters, Eliana and Savannah, AIST always has staff on tour to ensure you have an incredible experience. If I miss you on tour, I hope our paths cross down the road.”

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