Christopher Zell

In this role, he provides executive-level oversight of facility operations and leads strategic initiatives that ensure the delivery of high-quality, Veteran-centered care across a 36-county region spanning South Carolina’s Upstate, Midlands, and Pee Dee areas.

A native of Woonsocket, South Dakota, Mr. Zell brings more than a decade of federal service and engineering leadership to his current position. Prior to this appointment, he served as the Chief Engineer of CVAHCS from October 2017 to November 2025. As Chief Engineer, he directed all aspects of Engineering Service operations and was recognized as the VA Chief Engineer of the Year in 2021 for his outstanding leadership and service.

 Mr. Zell is a graduate of the prestigious Excellence in Government Fellows Program and oversaw a comprehensive $180 million maintenance and construction portfolio focused on modernization, safety, and infrastructure upgrades. His leadership played a vital role in several major capital improvements, including the Center for Rehabilitation Services, the Building 10 Primary Care renovation, implementation of the Electronic Health Record Modernization infrastructure, development of the 590-space parking garage, and the Building 100 electrical upgrade.

Mr. Zell began his VA career in May 2015 and has served in roles including Projects Chief and Assistant Chief Engineer. Before joining VA, he worked with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in both the Charleston District and the Afghanistan Engineering District–North. During that time, he supported Capital Programs, Public Works, and Military Contingency Programs, and served in positions such as Electrical Engineer, Project Engineer, and Resident Engineer, providing expertise in construction management and facility sustainment.

 A proud U.S. Air Force Veteran, Mr. Zell was stationed at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, where he supported secure communications installations throughout the eastern United States and Europe.

 He holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Auburn University and a Master of Business Administration from Webster University. He is an active member of the American Society of Health Care Engineering and the Society of American Military Engineers.