Willie began working in the travel industry as a sales agent for Cathay Pacific from 1984 to 1985. In 1986, he moved to the United States, where he worked at a small travel agency for two years. From 1988 to 1993, he left the travel industry to work in retail. In 1994, he began working at Trans Am Travel as a sales agent. He took initiative in learning and creating more effective systems for Trans Am Travel and was eventually promoted to the Vice President and head of marketing.
TRO: Tell us about your role at Trans Am Travel.
WG: As the Vice President and head of marketing, I find new agencies to work with and new venues for our products. I also communicate with the airlines in order to establish new contracts.
TRO: What is your most fond travel memory to date?
WG: My most fond travel memory was being one of the first to board Lufthansa’s first A380 double-decker airbus in Frankfurt. They had a big party in there.
TRO: What aspect of travel motivates you as a professional in the industry?
WG: I am motivated by the challenge of the job! Everyday the product changes as new airlines and destinations are added.
TRO: What is a unique feature or service Trans Am offers?
WG: Trans Am offers discounted fares, both net and commissionable, exclusively to travel agents.
TRO: What is Trans Am’s relationship with travel agents? With suppliers?
WG: We have fantastic relationships with agents and suppliers. Trans Am Travel deals exclusively with travel agencies. We increase sales volumes for suppliers.
TRO: Does Trans Am offer any special programs or incentives for travel agents?
WG: Because we sell a high volume of tickets and have contracts with over 60 suppliers, we are able to offer great discounts for travel agencies.
TRO: What are some of the fundamental principles that keep Trans Am Travel running successfully?
WG: Our fundamental principles are honesty and timeliness. We are also always on the lookout for new deals and technologies to support a changing industry.
TRO: Is there anything on the horizon in 2014 Trans Am Travel?
WG: In the 3rd quarter of this year, we plan to begin offering vacation tour packages as well as hotel services to our clients.