Order has finally been restored when it comes to tourism in Chattanooga and Hamilton County.
Three years after the global pandemic caused tourism numbers to plummet in the Chattanooga area and elsewhere, Hamilton County is on track to see $1.63 billion in domestic visitor spending in 2022. That figure represents an 8% increase over 2021, a new record, according to the Tennessee Tourism Development Agency.
Fueled by classic attractions like Rock City, Ruby Falls and the Tennessee Aquarium, sports teams like the Chattanooga Lookouts and events like the Ironman Triathlon, Hamilton County ranks fifth among Tennessee counties in tourism spending.
“The economic vitality brought by tourism creates jobs, supports local businesses and funds community projects, all of which contribute to making Hamilton County a great place to live,” said Chattanooga Tourism Corporation President Barry White.
Tim Sears, CEO and President, Creative Discovery Museums
Photo: Bob Gailey/Creative Discover Museums CEO Tim Sears with his daughter Monroe.
Tim Sears, who will relocate from Nashville to Chattanooga in late 2023, isn’t just replacing Henry Schulson as president and CEO of the Creative Discovery Museum.
He got the keys to the building just two months after the $12.5 million renovation, which he says “speaks volumes” of the support CDM has received from its board and the community at large.
“It’s also a tribute to the legacy left by Mr. Schulson,” he added, referring to his predecessor, who retires in 2023 after 26 years as the museum’s CEO.
“The opportunity here is to elevate operations and establish a new standard of excellence for how the museum can support a growing Chattanooga,” said Sears, who comes to CDM from the Adventure Science Center in Nashville, where during his 12 years there he moved from managing the annual fund and fundraising events to becoming director of operations in 2020.
Sears, 38, of Augusta, Georgia, is a museum buff: “I’m the son of a scientist,” he says, and he has a master’s degree in museum studies from Johns Hopkins University.
Chattanooga Lookouts Vice President Andrew Zito
Photo provided by Andrew Zito
“The sports and events industry will continue to leverage technology to create unique experiences for fans – digital tickets and cashless facilities are just the beginning.”
Cutting-edge technology will be used to enhance and streamline the ticket purchasing experience. There will be more convenient purchasing options with automated and self-checkout concessions and merchandise. Replays, statistics and advanced metrics will be available on your mobile phone at the click of a button.
The team will further leverage customer data and purchasing behavior to better understand consumers and customise event experiences for each fan.”
Brian Murphy, Chief Development Officer, Chattanooga Tourism
Photo provided by Brian Murphy
“Looking forward to 2030, Chattanooga will continue to leverage its status as a ‘Gig City’ by increasing technology-driven services for business and leisure travelers.”
Sustainable partner initiatives, locally sourced cuisine and advanced AI integration will reinvent the guest experience. Culturally diverse catering options and increased hospitality flexibility will meet evolving guest needs.
Our role is to lead this transformation journey, ensuring the seamless integration of technology while preserving the human touch that defines Chattanooga’s hospitality.”
Mitch Patel, CEO and President, Vision Hospitality
Photo provided by Mitch Patel
“By 2030, the hospitality industry is poised to embark on a transformational path by integrating AI and advanced technologies. Our industry has historically been slow to adapt to technology, but that is accelerating.
We are already seeing the integration of AI into our daily work, and this trend will only grow stronger. Although these advancements bring many benefits to service quality, they cannot replace the essence of a genuine human experience. People will always crave the memorable experiences that only personal interactions can provide.
So while technology can help us operate more efficiently, we need to maintain the importance of genuine, personal hospitality. We believe this new technology will empower our associates to spend more time doing what they do best – serving our valued guests.”
