Former Autotask CEO Bob Godgart is boarding an airplane this morning. Godgart’s apparent destination: the SMB Nation conference in Las Vegas. Godgart is set to step down as Autotask’s chairman, effective October 1, to “pursue a new venture.” So what is he up to?

Godgart’s first step appears to be closure with Autotask. Mark Cattini succeeded Godgart as Autotask CEO in December 2010, then Godgart resigned his day-to-day duties at Autotask in May 2011. Now, he and Autotask are making a clean break — on solid terms. Godgart is preparing to build something new while Cattini strives to accelerate Autotask’s international strategy.

Speculation on my part: I think Godgart’s next move will involve a vendor-neutral effort focused on the channel. MSPmentor previously reported that Godgart has an interest in connecting the dots between the channel industry, business communications and social media. I believe Godgart will also remain chairman of CompTIA, the association serving VARs, MSPs and IT professionals.