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Meet The Team
Robert Short
Chief Executive Officer
Born and raised in Knott County, Kentucky—specifically within the Hindman and Pippa Passes communities—Robert Short is the Chief Executive Officer, versatile business owner, wholesaler, and multi-industry entrepreneur guiding Appalachian Commerce and Contracting LLC and Eastern Kentucky Liquidation with a deep-rooted commitment to his home region. His professional background spans corporate finance support, tax preparation, accounting, direct mail marketing, and construction management.
As the driving force behind the enterprise, Robert combines a lifelong understanding of local mountain communities with sharp operational discipline. His expertise encompasses high-value institutional portfolio management, financial services, digital media strategy, QuickBooks, payroll, and asset management. Dedicated to cutting out supply chain friction and keeping capital within Eastern Kentucky, he approaches logistics, capital deployment, and enterprise growth with a hands-on work ethic and a vision for sustainable regional impact.
As CEO, Robert leads high-level strategy and partnership development, focusing on resilient local supply chains, second-chance hiring initiatives, and public-private alignments that drive lasting economic growth and community resource expansion.
robert.short@appccsolutions.com
Valarie Collins
Chief Operating Officer
Born and raised in Knott County, Kentucky—specifically within the Pinetop, Redfox, and Perkins Madden communities—Valarie C. Collins is a dedicated licensed professional clinical counselor with over 20 years of experience helping others cope with life's challenges. She earned her Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Cincinnati (2003–2005) and her Bachelor of Science in Psychology & Philosophy from Northern Kentucky University (1999–2002). As a 50/50 owner and Chief Operating Officer of Appalachian Commerce and Contracting LLC and Eastern Kentucky Liquidation, Valarie brings extensive expertise in mental health care, administrative support, financial billing, and organizational management.
As COO, Valarie oversees the daily operations for Eastern Kentucky Liquidation. From managing day-to-day operations to onboarding new hires, she is dedicated to maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and customer service. Beyond the logistics of the warehouse, she plays a crucial role in managing project operations and providing the guidance and support staff need to succeed and grow within the organization and communities. Deeply rooted in her home region, Valarie combines her clinical background and operational leadership to support the community's health and economic well-being through the growth of Eastern Kentucky's business infrastructure.
