Did you find the hospitality industry, or did it find you?

Like many who find themselves in the hospitality industry, I sort of fell into it through a good friend. I was coaching Kamehameha High School track and field at the time and the head coach asked if I’d like a part-time job at Chuck’s Steak House in Waikīkī. Working as a busser and food runner was my first taste of hospitality. In 2005 my family and I moved to Las Vegas, Nevada. I worked at the Bellagio and was privileged to be a part of the opening team for both the Red Rock Casino and Trump Las Vegas. A few years later, I had the fortunate opportunity to move back home and open the fourth Trump Hotel in Waikīkī.

What is the importance of the hospitality industry, and how do you fit in?

I feel the hospitality industry has a heightened importance in Hawai‘i for various reasons. First, the amount of jobs directly supported by the industry, not just hotel, restaurant, tours, etc. There are also retail, conventions, events, construction, the list goes on. Secondly, the tax revenue from the billion-dollar industry supports numerous aspects of Hawai‘i’s communities directly and indirectly. Lastly, we have an opportunity every day to share our distinctive culture and leave that memorable impression.

My personal daily goal is to make a positive impact, no matter how large or small the impact.  Ensuring the team is supported, operational needs are met, guest expectations are fulfilled, etc.  In turn, Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani will provide a positive impact on Hawai‘i’s hospitality industry.

Are there any aspects that excite you the most about the hospitality industry and invigorate your team?

The term “Regenerative Tourism” has been the new exciting catch phrase everyone has been talking about. I’m excited to see how the leaders of our industry and State will incorporate initiatives to achieve a net positive impact that tourism will have on Hawai‘i’s environment. As a team in 2025, we are looking at meaningful sustainability changes to do our part in this effort.

What do you feel are the most serious challenges facing the hospitality industry and how might they be resolved? What is the industry doing well?

I feel similar to the previous question, how does the hospitality industry and all the various companies that support it make a net positive impact on Hawai‘i. Not only on Hawai‘i’s fragile eco-system but also its people, communities, and culture. It was amazing to see Bill 2659 pass last June that addresses how we as hospitality professionals now have specific resources to aid in this effort. Part of the challenge will be to identify as a singular hotel and how we, as a team, can make the most significant impact based on the sustainability choices with which we move forward.

What do you envision will take place in the hospitality industry in the years ahead and how might the local industry adapt or change?

There is much talk and emphasis on AI and automation, how we as an industry will rely on streamlining SOPs as technology evolves. There will be a large percentage of guests who will expect to select their room prior to arrival, receive a digital key after a mobile check-in, and after a 3-night stay have little interaction with staff.

My goal and hope as a local aloha-based destination is that we hold fast to our roots of genuine hospitality. An effort to personalize guest experiences while still offering the advantages of the newest technologies. In a world of constant development of AI and automation, Hawaiian hospitality can adapt and thrive as we continue to not just provide great service, but genuine connections.