VZT:  How did you get started in the travel industry?
Prior to working at Van Zile Travel I worked for a local CPA firm.  The CPA firm just happened to be Van Zile Travel’s accounting firm.  This is how I met Kate.  I had left the CPA firm to work in the private sector.  One day I received a telephone call at home from Kate.  She had tracked me down through the CPA firm.  So here I am. 
 

VZT: Okay – so how long have you in the position you are now?
I have been with Van Zile Travel for 14 years.  When I started there were only two of us in accounting.  The division has now evolved into a technology and finance team with nine employees. 
 

VZT: Where have you been and what is your favorite destination?   
I lived in Italy for three years during the early 1980’s.  I have traveled to San Diego, El Paso, Denver, Yellow Stone, Las Vegas, and Cabo.  My favorite is Cabo.
 

VZT:  What is the strangest thing that has happened to you at work?   
I don’t really recall any one particular strange thing happening at work.  I can tell you that the travel industry is the most challenging industry I have worked in.  I’ve worked in the private sector in several different areas, but by far travel is the most exciting industry.
 

VZT:  What do you do with your free time?  
I spend a lot of time with my daughter, Cally. Cally has Cerebral Palsy and needs a lot of assistance with every day to day living.  She is currently working hard on utilizing a communication device that will not only help her communicate but also allow her to control items like a television, stereo and lights.  She is a very smart young lady in a body that just does not work well.  My other passion is gardening.  I love to dig in the dirt.  It really clears my mind.
 

VZT:  And now – how about the personal info? 
I have a wonderful man in my life, Mike.  We have been together for over ten years.  I am blessed that both of my parents are still with me.  Dad is 84 and Mom is 77.  I have three brothers, Jim, John, and Joel.  Family is really important to me.  We spend a lot of time with each other.  Holidays and birthdays are always a big deal.  It takes very little for us to come up with an excuse to get together. 
 

VZT: Words of wisdom?   
Keep a good balance.  Take time for yourself.  Spend time with people you love.  Work with purpose, pride and honesty.  No one knows when your time on this earthly place will be cut short.  Make your time here one that you can look back on and feel good about.