Discover how businesses in the tourism industry identify the right partners and build collaborations that strengthen both their operations and the visitor experience. This panel discussion will highlight how partnerships between different types of businesses create unique opportunities, add value for visitors, and contribute to the overall success of the industry.
MEET THE PANELISTS
Steve Judd – Alaska Tour & Travel: Steve is President of Alaska Tour & Travel, an Anchorage-based company specializing in Alaska travel planning and motorcoach operations. With over 40 years in tourism, including leadership roles at Princess Cruises. Steve brings deep industry experience and a broad network of partners across Southcentral and Interior Alaska.
Cole Chambers – Rust’s Flying Service & K2 Aviation: Cole is Director of Sales and Marketing at Rust’s Flying Service and K2 Aviation. With over a decade in tourism, including time with a major cruise line where she had the opportunity to partner with the family-owned Rust’s/K2 business. She thrives on building partnerships and nurturing client relationships.
Mandy Garcia – Salmon Berry Travel & Tours: Mandy is co-owner of Salmon Berry Travel & Tours and has worked in Alaska tourism for 16 years. Starting as a guide, she now employs a team of year-round Alaskans and thrive through creative partnerships with locally owned small businesses, and travel advisors specializing in selling Alaska travel packages. With every tour, Mandy and her team strive to share an Alaska that feels real, memorable, and uniquely their own.
WINTER TOURISM SHOWCASE: 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. | 1 - 2 p.m.
Come to the Dena'ina Center early or stay afterward for the annual Winter Tourism Showcase. Are you and your staff ready for winter? 20 + vendors from across the state will gather to show you and your frontline team what winter has to offer.