About Me
Hello, Long Lake Neighbors!
My name is Travis Michels. I grew up in Rochester, Minnesota, where I met my wonderful wife, Carrie, in high school. I went on to attend college in Mankato, Minnesota, where I earned a degree in Civil Engineering and spent many years working in the field.
More recently, I added aviation to my professional experience and became a Flight Instructor Pilot. I’m proud of the diverse experiences my career has provided me and the perspective they have given me on leadership, problem-solving, and responsibility.
My wife, Carrie, is a healthcare provider, and together we have a 9½-year-old son, Keegan—yes, he will correct you on the “½”—and our family dog, Lola.
We have called Minnetonka home since 2014 and moved to Long Lake in 2025. We have spent many of those years enjoying the lake, especially water skiing, and have come to truly appreciate what makes this community and Long Lake so special.
We are excited to be part of the Long Lake community and look forward to continuing to build a strong, safe, responsible, and connected community for our families and future generations.
Strong supporter of Orono Long Lake Athletics
Investing in Our Community
Our family is also very active in the Orono School District community, with our child participating in baseball, hockey, and football. We believe youth sports are an important part of building strong communities, teaching teamwork, discipline, and leadership while bringing families together.
Most recently, I volunteered for the site cleanup associated with the proposed Morrison hockey arena addition. Being involved in projects like this is important to me because strong communities are built not only through government decisions, but through neighbors who are willing to volunteer their time and roll up their sleeves to make a difference.
I believe we should continue to support opportunities that bring families together, encourage youth participation, and strengthen the connections that make Long Lake and the surrounding community a great place to live.
Strong commitment to community involvement
I believe being part of a community means more than simply living here—it means being willing to serve, volunteer, and contribute.
Over the years, I have been involved in several organizations and community efforts, including:
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Adaptive Ski and Snowboard Instructor – Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute: Volunteering to teach skiing and snowboarding to individuals with physical challenges has been especially rewarding and has reinforced for me the importance of inclusion, opportunity, and giving back to others.
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Long Lake Planning Commission: Serving on the Planning Commission has given me firsthand experience with local government, community planning, development, and the importance of thoughtful decision-making that considers both today's needs and the long-term interests of our community.
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Civil Air Patrol – Viking Squadron: Through my involvement with the Civil Air Patrol, I have developed an even greater appreciation for service, teamwork, leadership, and community preparedness.
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Long Lake Waters Association: My wife, Carrie, is a member of the Long Lake Waters Association and shares our family's commitment to protecting and preserving Long Lake for future generations.
These experiences have strengthened my belief that effective leadership starts with listening, service, and a willingness to work together. I want to bring that same approach to serving the residents of Long Lake.
My Principles
I will represent every member of the Long Lake community and ensure every voice has an opportunity to be heard. I believe effective leadership starts with listening—not just to those who agree with me, but to everyone who cares about the future of our community. I will listen, engage, and work to find practical solutions that move Long Lake forward together.
Integrity
Transparency
Innovation
Resiliency