Annual Convention & Trade Show Schedule

Registration Open and Trade Show Set-Up

First Floor - Idlughet (Eklutna) Exhibit Hall 1 & 2

Registration & Trade Show Open

First Floor - Idlughet (Eklutna) Exhibit Hall 1 & 2

Sponsored by: JL Hospitality Management

CulturalHost Training

Second Floor - Tubughnenq' 3

Pre-registration required. 
Trainer: Jaime Bricker, Explore Skagway

Sponsored by: Travel Juneau
 

Alaska Host Train the Trainer Training

Second Floor - Tubughnenq' 4

Pre-registration required. 
Trainer: Tay Clayton, ATIA

AI and Travel

Third Floor - Tikahtnu Ballroom D

Listen to AI expert C.A. Clark, VP of AI at Miles Partnership, discuss the impacts of AI on the travel industry. From web search to online booking, AI is rapidly changing and shaping the travel landscape. Get an introduction to these changes from this top tier expert.
Speaker: C.A. Clark, Miles Partnership 

Sponsored by: TEMSCO Helicopters

Public Lands Forum

Third Floor - Tikahtnu Ballroom E

Federal land management representatives will provide end of summer updates and answer questions on visitor-facing facilities, projects, and services.
Speakers: Zach Babb, National Park Service; Tyler Glenn, US Forest Service; Kevin Painter, US Fish & Wildlife Service

Sponsored by: Bettisworth North

Unlocking Opportunity: Featuring Your Experiences on Atmos Rewards Unlocked

Second Floor - Tubughnenq' 5

Discover how partnering with Atmos Rewards Unlocked can elevate your visibility and drive bookings by connecting directly with Atmos Rewards members – frequent travelers from across the globe eager to explore Alaska. This session will walk you through how to feature your tours, activities, and travel packages on the platform, and highlight the benefits of direct access to a high-value audience. 
Speaker: Alex Levy, Alaska Airlines

Sponsored by: Alaska Airlines

ATIA Board of Directors Meeting

Second Floor - Boardroom

First Timer's Event

Second Floor - Kahtnu 1 & 2

Welcome first timer's of Convention! This is your opportunity to learn more about what to expect, how to make the most of Convention, and network.
Speaker: Mandy Garcia, Salmon Berry Travel & Tours

Sponsored by: Alaska Helicopter Tours

Welcome Performance by Melissa Mitchell

Third Floor - Tikahtnu Ballroom A, B, C, F

Convention Opening Ceremony!

Third Floor - Tikahtnu Ballroom A, B, C, F

Emcee: Tom Marriage, Phillips Cruises & Tours
Land Acknowledgement: Aaron Leggett, President of the Native Village of Eklutna
Speaker: Becky Windt Pearson, Municipality of Anchorage

Sponsored by: Visit Anchorage

Tourism Year in Review

Speakers: Josh Howes, Premier Alaska Tours & ATIA Board Chair; Jillian Simpson, ATIA President & CEO

Led by Industry: The Founding of ATIA 

Speakers: Ann Campbell and Tina Lindgren

Networking Break & Snacks in the Trade Show

First Floor - Idlughet (Eklutna) Exhibit Hall 1 & 2

Sponsored by: Northrim Bank

State of Play & Strategic Advocacy: U.S. Travel Association

Third Floor - Tikahtnu Ballroom A, B, C, F

Nicole Porter, Vice President of Political Affairs at U.S. Travel Association will do a deep dive into the latest travel trends, which policies the industry should keep an eye on, and where we go next. 
Speaker: Nicole Porter, U.S. Travel Association

Sponsored by: White Pass & Yukon Railroad

Speed Networking

First Floor - Idlughet (Eklutna) Exhibit Hall 1 & 2

Stock up on business cards and get ready to make some new connections! The concept is simple: two lines of attendees face each other and take a minute to introduce themselves. With new faces to meet every 60 seconds, you'll end the session with a pile of new professional contacts in Alaska's visitor industry! 

Sponsored by: Fountainhead Hotels

Coaches to Alaska Native Heritage Center for Opening Night Reception

Sponsored by: Premier Alaska Tours & HAP Alaska Yukon

Opening Night Reception

Alaska Native Heritage Center

Sponsored by: Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, HAP Alaska Yukon

Registration Open

First Floor - Idlughet (Eklutna) Exhibit Hall 1 & 2

Economic Update

Third Floor - Tikahtnu Ballroom A, B, C, F

Kevin will summarize the current state of the Alaska economy, including employment in key sectors, as well as national trends that will have meaningful impacts on potential tourism demand in the next year.
Speaker: Kevin Berry, Department of Economics, University of Alaska Anchorage

Sponsored by: Port of Seattle

Legislative Panel

Third Floor - Tikahtnu Ballroom A, B, C, F

Alaska State Legislators will share perspectives from their work drafting legislation in Juneau. 
Moderator: Wade Binkley, Riverboat Discovery; Speakers: Senator Bert Stedman, Representative Calvin Schrage, Representative Will Stapp, Senator Jesse Bjorkman

Sponsored by: Stan Stephens Glacier & Wildlife Cruises

Networking Break & Snacks in the Trade Show

First Floor - Idlughet (Eklutna) Exhibit Hall 1 & 2

Sponsored by: Simpleview

Tails & Trails - Where Dog Mushing and Tourism Meet

Third Floor - Tikahtnu Ballroom A, B, C, F

Moderator: Liz Failor, Alaskan Husky Adventures; Speakers: Jeff King, Paige Drobny, Matt Failor, Tekla Butcher-Monson

Sponsored by: Explore Fairbanks
 

Lunch Program - Alaska Cruise Update

Third Floor - Tikahtnu Ballroom A, B, C, F

Moderator: Renée Limoge Reeve, CLIA Alaska; Speakers: Robert Morgenstern, Holland America Group; Preston Carnahan, Royal Caribbean Group; Brianna Freeman, Virgin Voyages; Christine Manjencic, Norwegian Cruise Line

Sponsored by: Premier Alaska Tours
 

Concurrent Sessions

Do You Own Your Business, or Does It OWN You?  

Third Floor - Tikahtnu Ballroom E 

Ral will speak about how stepping into the owner role vs being involved in the day-to-day operations increases your strategic focus, improves workflows and team productivity, and enables your business to grow and scale without needing you to increase your time commitment. Learn six foundational principles that will ensure lasting success for your business, while freeing you to enjoy more of your own life. 
Speaker: Ral West, Livin' the Dream  

Sponsored by: Subway 
 

Partnering with Influencers: Best Practices & Marketing Strategies

Third Floor - Tikahtnu Ballroom D 

Speakers: Kailee Stickler, Thompson & Co. Public Relations, Lesli Olson, Carly Padrta, Max Romey

Sponsored by: Alaska Tour & Travel
 

The Sustainability Balancing Act: Challenges and Successes for Pursuing Certification

Second Floor - Tubughnenq' 4 & 5

Adventure Green Alaska-certified members will discuss opportunities and challenges of pursuing sustainable tourism certifications. This is a great session for both current AGA businesses and those interested in becoming certified!
Moderator: Cathy Renfeldt, Cordova Chamber of Commerce; Speakers: Eric Segalstad, Gondwana Ecotours; Linwood Butler, Camp Denali; Bonnie Westlund, Holland America Princess; Mandy Garcia, Salmon Berry Tours

Sponsored by: Alaska Wildland Adventures
 

Alaska Visitor and Resident Surveys: The Latest Research

Second Floor - Tubughnenq' 3

Learn what both visitors AND residents have been saying. McKinley Research presents the latest results of the Anchorage Airport Wi-Fi Survey, which gathered information from over 40,000 visitors in 2024-25 — trip planning, activities, demographics, and more. The session will also review results of resident surveys in Juneau, Haines, and Fairbanks, including their views on tourism and future growth of the industry.
Speaker: Heather Haugland, McKinley Research Group

Sponsored by: Mahay's Jet Boat Adventures
 

Federal Delegation Updates

Second Floor - Kahtnu 1 & 2

State directors for Alaska’s congressional delegation will share updates from their offices and field questions regarding tourism-related policies.
Speakers: Karina Waller, State Director for Senator Lisa Murkowski; Adam Trombley, State Director for Senator Dan Sullivan; Rick Whitbeck, State Director for Representative Nick Begich 

Sponsored by: Alaska Riverways - Riverboat Discovery

Networking Break & Dessert in the Trade Show

First Floor - Idlughet (Eklutna) Exhibit Hall 1 & 2

Sponsored by: All Alaska Tours

Concurrent Sessions
   

Wait! What? A Tour Operator’s Review of Essential Employment Laws

Third Floor - Tikahtnu Ballroom E 

Surprise! Compliance --- whether you’re a seasonal or year-round tour operator, small or large, new or established --- it’s a thing. This session highlights employment laws that might cross your desk in any given season.
Speaker: Rebecca Savidis,  Alaska HR

Sponsored by: Ketchikan Alaska
 

Partnering for Success: Unlocking Group & FIT Opportunities

Second Floor - Kahtnu 1 & 2

Want to tap into new markets and boost your business? Group and FIT tour operators are key to bringing travelers to Alaska—and they’re looking for partners like you! Join this dynamic panel of seasoned operators as they share insider tips on what they need, how contracting works, and the best ways to stand out. Discover the real benefits of working with tour operators, learn how to position your product for success, and walk away with practical strategies to grow your reach in the group and FIT markets.
Moderator: Tia Froehle, Visit Anchorage; Speakers: Renee Bonjour, Holiday Vacations; Jason St. Clair, Collette; Noel Dechambeau, Knightly Tours; Roberta Warner, Alaska Tour & Travel

Sponsored by: Holiday Vacations
 

Getting Found in an AI World

Second Floor - Tubughnenq' 4 & 5

Web search results are being impacted by the use of generative AI, affecting business web traffic and sales. Learn from AI expert, C.A. Clark, VP of AI at Miles Partnership, on specific strategies and tactics on how to change your website strategy to meet the age of AI.
Speaker: C.A. Clark, Miles Partnership

Sponsored by: Kennicott Glacier Lodge
 

How to Utilize YouTube for Small Business

Second Floor - Tubughnenq' 3

Learn more about YouTube and how it can help your small business marketing efforts. Get a deeper understanding of trends, user base, and features as well as high level learning of SEO best practices, channel optimization and growth strategies.
Speaker: Annika Knutsen, Miles Partnership

Sponsored by: Nome Discovery Tours
 

Connecting Alaska: Airline Travel Trends and Route Development

Third Floor - Tikahtnu Ballroom D 

Air service plays a critical role in how visitors and residents connect with Alaska — and the landscape is changing fast. Anchorage International Airport’s Erik Peterson and Jeff Sigmon will highlight the latest airline travel trends, share how new routes are developed, and explain what these shifts mean for both tourism and business. Attendees will gain an inside look at the strategies shaping Alaska’s air connectivity and the opportunities on the horizon.
Speakers: Erik Peterson,Ted Stephens Anchorage International Airport; Jeff Sigmon, Arthur D. Little Consulting

Sponsored by: GCI

Emerging Tourism Leaders Networking Reception

First Floor - Idlughet (Eklutna) Exhibit Hall 1 & 2

We will be hosting a special reception for young professionals who are the next generation of leaders in the Alaska tourism industry. Everyone is welcome to attend. Mix and mingle with emerging and established leaders in the tourism industry.

Sponsored by: Pursuit

COMMUNITY NIGHT!
 

Bring your ID and pick up your wrist bands for Community Night at the ATIA Anchorage Chapter Booth in the Trade Show during the following times:
10:30AM - 11:00AM
12:15PM - 1:30PM
2:45PM - 3:15PM

Registration Open

First Floor - Idlughet (Eklutna) Exhibit Hall 1 & 2

Hair of the Sled Dog: Mocktails & Breakfast Cocktails

First Floor - Idlughet (Eklutna) Exhibit Hall 1 & 2

Enjoy donuts with your breakfast beverage.

Sponsored by: Alaska by Design

Travel Alaska Marketing Plan Presentation

Third Floor - Tikahtnu Ballroom A, B, C, F

Speakers: Tanya Carlson-Hancock and Ruth Rosewarne Kimerer, ATIA

Sponsored by: Explore Skagway

Stewarding Alaska's Future: The Business of Meaningful Travel

Third Floor - Tikahtnu Ballroom A, B, C, F

Presented by Tourism Cares, this session shows how destination stewardship can keep Alaska’s product strong by balancing community wellbeing, nature, business growth, and visitor value. This session frames the business case, then gets practical about what each segment can do, both together and on their own. Expect Alaska-grounded examples and guidance you can use right away. The session will also explain tools and resources available through Tourism Cares, including the Meaningful Travel Map, to help industry partners learn about meaningful travel and identify Impact Partners in Alaska and around the world.
Speaker: John Sutherland, Tourism Cares

Sponsored by: Corragio Group

Networking Break & Snacks in the Trade Show

First Floor - Idlughet (Eklutna) Exhibit Hall 1 & 2

Sponsored by: Doyon Limited

Remarks by Commissioner Julie Sande

Voice of the Membership

Third Floor - Tikahtnu Ballroom A, B, C, F

We want to hear from you! Share your priorities and feedback for ATIA.

Sponsored by: The Mat-Su Alaska
 

Lunch Program: Cultural Tourism

Third Floor - Tikahtnu Ballroom A, B, C, F

Moderator: Stacey Simmons, Kodiak Brown Bear Center & Lodge; Speakers: Steven Sahlender, Goldbelt, Inc.; Kelsey Ciugun Wallace, Alaska Native Heritage Center; Jordan Sanford, Doyon Tourism; Susan Bell, Huna Totem Corporation

Sponsored by: Alaska Railroad

5 for 5 Presentations

Third Floor - Tikahtnu Ballroom A, B, C, F

Want a chance to introduce your business to ATIA Convention Attendees? Sign up for the new "5 for 5" event, where you'll get to come up on stage and have 5 minutes to present up to 5 slides about your business or product! Like our sponsors of this event, Thompson & Co., would say: Good PR starts at home. This is your chance to tell your story or pitch your product in front of your tourism industry peers. Tell us about your business in a quick and captivating 5-minute presentation. Presenters must sign up in advance and time slots are now full for this session.
Moderator: Heather Handyside, Thompson & Co. Public Relations

Sponsored by: Thompson & Co. Public Relations
 

Reveal of 2026 ATIA Convention Logo and Theme
 

Small Business Roundtables

Second Floor - Tubughnenq' 4 & 5

Kirk will lead small group discussions related to small business operations. Network with peers sharing obstacles and solutions related to recruitment, staff management, adminsistrative processes, vehicles and equipment, and more.
Moderator: Kirk Hoessle, Alaska Wildland Adventures

Sponsored by: Salmon Berry Tours

DMO & Chamber Roundtables

Second Floor - Kahtnu 1 & 2

Join fellow DMO and Chamber leaders for a focused roundtable discussion, organized into dedicated groups for membership, marketing, and executive leadership. Connect, collaborate, and share insights with peers who understand your unique challenges and goals.
Moderator: Casey Ressler, The Mat-Su Alaska with members of his team 

Sponsored by: Wrangell CVB

ATIA Board of Directors Meeting and ATIA Foundation Board Meeting

Second Floor - Boardroom

Banquet Reception

Third Floor - Tikahtnu Ballroom C, D, E, F

Mix and mingle with your fellow attendees before the closing night Banquet.

Sponsored by: FareHarbor

ATIA Awards Banquet & Advocacy Live Auction

Third Floor - Tikahtnu Ballroom A, B

Celebrate ATIA's 25th Anniversary by donning your best silver attire!

Wine Sponsored by: Knightly Tours
Decorations Sponsored by: Logistics

After Party at Wildbirch Hotel
 

Transportation from 9:00PM - 10:00PM provided by the Anchorage Trolley

Sponsored by: Alaska Travel Adventures