Striving for Excellence

Tim Wilson, nominated as one of the 2017 Top 10 Next Gens by Groups Today readers for making a difference in the industry, began working in the travel and tour industry during college—and has never looked back. Today, he serves as the Director of Business Development for United Bus Technology, Inc.

 What inspired your passion for travel?

Growing up, I watched three of my uncles work in the travel and tour industry as motorcoach operators. I loved to see them in their respective uniforms and driving their nice, big, pretty coaches. From that point, just watching them I knew I wanted to find my way into the industry when I got older. The excitement of meeting new people, traveling to different places and knowing that you had a direct impact on someone's vacation or trip was all worth the while for me.

How did you become involved in the group travel industry?

At the age of 21, I was introduced to the travel industry by one of my uncles. I began my career in the industry as a full-time motorcoach operator for Peter Pan Bus Lines. I drove runs between Washington, D.C., and New York, New York. Once I got my foot in the door, I have never looked back.

What's your favorite part about your current position? Your favorite part about the group travel industry?

In my current position as Director of Business Development, I enjoy working with motorcoach companies on their IT needs. I believe that my background in the motorcoach industry as an operator helps me to better understand the needs and challenges of our clients.

What have you accomplished so far in your career? What's your most prized accomplishment?

This industry has afforded me many opportunities. I have worked in various positions in this industry, from a bus cleaner, driver, director of sales and marketing, general manager, and president.

My most prized accomplishment was during my tenure at Gunther Charters & Tours, where I served as the Director of Sales and Marketing. I was able to contribute significantly to the growth of the company. When I started with Gunther in 2009, the company had 15 motorcoaches. When I left the company in December of 2014, the company was up to 38 motorcoaches. The significant growth was a result of our acquisition of Hunt Valley Motorcoach, in which I was very instrumental and negotiated a multimillion-dollar Tripper Bus deal. Today, Gunther Charters is known as one of Maryland's premier bus companies.

How do you hope to make a difference in the group travel industry? What do you hope to achieve?

For me, this is very simple: I strive to make a difference in the lives of customers by providing first-class customer service. Service can either make or ruin a trip. So, I always strive for excellence. My ultimate goal is to one day, be able to retire from this industry knowing that I have made a difference in the lives of people through travel—affording them enjoyable travel experiences through excellent customer service!

Edited by Cassie Westrate, staff writer for Groups Today.