I’m joining the ALE team after a 36-year career at American Airlines.  During my tenure, I worked in a variety of departments – reservations, ticketing, budgets, operations, training, business development, and loyalty.  Additionally, through part-time/seasonal/temporary positions outside of American, I’ve gained experience in hotel reservations and customer care, retail customer service, airport access controls, and cash vault operations.

With a career in the airline industry, where are some of the places you’ve traveled?

Travel is my passion.  I’ve been very fortunate to experience many wonderful places and cultures.  I’ve traveled throughout Europe, visiting 22 countries… so far.  I look forward to adding several of The Balkan countries soon.  In Central and South America, I’ve been to 7 countries.  Chile and Ecuador (Galapagos Islands) are high on my travel bucket list.  I’ve visited 6 countries in Asia and Oceana, with Vietnam and New Zealand still on my wish list.  In Africa, I’ve been to 3 countries.

What are a few of coolest places you’ve visited or things you’ve done on your travels?

Wow, lots to choose from.  Here are a few.  I’ve snorkeled at The Great Barrier Reef.  I’ve been on safari in the Masai Mara in Kenya.  I’ve been to the Great Pyramids of Giza.  I’ve walked on the Great Wall of China.  I’ve ziplined in Cape Town.  I’ve paraglided over Neuschwanstein Castle.

It might be hard, but picking just one, what has been the highlight of all your travels?

Actually, that’s an easy one.  Hands down, without a doubt, the highlight of all my travels was my trip to Antarctica in 2015!  It was the culmination of my lifelong quest to step foot on all 7 continents.  So, Antarctica will always be very special to me for that reason.  But it was much more than achieving my goal.  I have never been to a more majestic, more peaceful place.  I still get emotional when I think about the untouched beauty of the landscape and the delight in seeing the Penguins and Seals and Birds.  I think the following quote about Antarctica sums it up far better than I can articulate:

“If Antarctica were music, it would be Mozart.  Art, and it would be Michelangelo.  Literature, and it would be Shakespeare.  And yet, it is something even greater; the only place on earth that is still as it should be.”    — Andrew Denton

 What do you like to do with your free time?  What are your hobbies?

It probably goes without saying, I love to travel.  And I can spend hours researching and planning trips.  Aside from travel… I’ve only been in Salt Lake City for about 15 months.  I’m originally from Ohio and have spent most of my life in Dallas, TX.  So, I’m enjoying the opportunity to explore Utah and the surrounding area.  I enjoy day hikes and visits to the National Parks.  For a relaxing evening at home, I enjoy reading and listening to inspirational music.  I also seek opportunities to support and participate in various humanitarian efforts.

Why did you decide to join ALE as a Travel Specialist?

It’s hard to put into words the excitement I felt when I learned about this opportunity.  The logistical expertise and travel experiences offered by ALE are unmatched.  I can’t imagine a more rewarding “job” than to work with our guests, our travel partners, and our colleagues in Punta Arenas and Antarctica to deliver the experience of a lifetime for each of our travelers.  It is a privilege for me to be here and to be a part of this amazing team.

Thank you so much, Doug.  Welcome to the ALE team!