When and how did you get started in the industry?
My parents started the company 30 years ago. I have always been involved in some capacity, whether it was escorting tours, working the front desk or washing buses. I went to college at Arizona State, coming back to Massachusetts to work in the company, be closer to my family and eventually run the family business.
Right now, I’m focusing my brain power on…
Efficiency. I went to a seminar at the ABA conference [where he joined UMA] and the person speaking said, “In our industry, we get very efficient at inefficient processes.’” I really took that to heart. My dad started the company with a desktop calendar and a gallon of liquid whiteout. We moved to Excel and whiteout tape, but not much else has changed… both for good and bad.
On my desk right now…
I would describe my desk in layers: layer one is compliance, layer two is paperwork on a VOIP system, layer three has some Fitbits for our new Fitbit Challenge, layer four is billing and layer five is checks. When I describe it this way, I realize it sounds like Dante’s inferno and I really need to clean my desk.
The best advice I ever got…
Under promise and over deliver. I try to be very honest with our clients about our strong points and weak points. The same goes for drivers. When drivers apply to work for us, they are relying on the info we give them to make the best decision for themselves and their families.
The biggest challenge we face as an industry…
Not only the driver shortage, but also the seismic shift in what drivers want from a career. It used to be that drivers wanted to be on the road eight days a week; now, people want a work-life balance, which can be challenging in this industry. I work really hard to make sure drivers can have that. Growing up in the industry, I know how hard it can be.
Our most popular tour/destination…
Mystery Tour. Our Motorcoach Tour Coordinators have built a reputation that each year surpasses the previous. It means a lot that people trust us with their time and money to go on such an adventure.
When customers hire us, they can expect…
Everyone in our entire company is going to try their hardest to exceed expectations. Weddings, shuttles, sports teams or tours, everyone takes a lot of pride in their work and loves to see their name on the compliment board.
What I do when I’m not at work…
My wife will tell you, I have far too many hobbies. I water ski, snowboard, smoke meat, brew beer and play guitar in a band. I really feel in this business you need those things that help clear your mind for a little while to maintain your sanity.
