In partnership with Central Washington University, the event will feature Joe Sprague, President of Horizon Air, as keynote and include panels on the tourism economic outlook for Washington, industry sector insights, a panel of destination marketing organizations experts focusing on current DMO issues, and an update on the new brand for the state. Detailed agenda and accomodation information below.
Thursday, April 2nd, 4pm – 6pm: Pre-Conference Event
“Best of Wenatchee” Social Mixer, showcasing Wenatchee’s local gourmet offerings, and a tour ofPybus Market.
Friday, April 3rd, 9am – 3:30pm
9:00am – 9:15am Welcome & Introduction
Welcome by WTA Co-chair & Wenatchee Chamber President, Shiloh Burgess
Welcome & Introduction of CWU President James Gaudino
9:15am – 9:30am WA Summit Update: Re-positioning & Re-Branding Destination WA
Planned Speaker to be the WTA state consultant awarded branding contract
9:30am – 10:15am Economic Outlook on WA Tourism, jobs and the economy
Dr. Paul Turek, State Economist, Labor Market & Economic Analysis, WA Employment Security Department
10:15am – 10:30am Coffee Break
10:30am – 12:30pm Tourism Insights: Sector Report
10:30am – 10:55am Online search behavior – Krista Bentley, Expedia Group Media Solutions, Strategic Accounts Director
10:55am – 11:20am Cruise industry impact on Washington and Pacific Northwest – Ron Peck, Port of Seattle, Director of Tourism Development
11:20am – 11:45am Washington Tourism and Outdoor Recreation – Jon Snyder, Governor’s Outdoor Recreation Senior Policy Advisor
11:45am – 12:10pm Washington’s wine / beverage industry and the impact on Tourism – Steve Warner, Washington Wine Commission, President
12:10pm – 12:30pm Panelist Q&A
12:30pm – 1:40pm Lunch
Horizon’s Way Forward: Creating Success in Regional Markets – Horizon Airlines, President Joe Sprague
1:40pm – 3:10pm DMO Panel Forum
Yakima: John Cooper, Yakima Valley Tourism, President
Leavenworth: Nancy Smith, Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce, Executive Director
Bellingham: Sandy Ward, Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism, President and CEO
Olympic Peninsula: Marsha Massey, Olympic Peninsula Visitor Bureau, Executive Director
3:10pm – 3:30pm Closing Remarks
Mark Pritchard, Professor, College of Business CWU
Mike Moe, Managing Director WTA
To register or for more information, click here.