WHAT’S YOUR LEADERSHIP PHILOS- OPHY? Lead by example. Be in there, partnering with them, especially on the hard days. I also believe in building a better person for a better planet. It’s a whole Hawaiian value. All your choices affect everyone around you. That’s im - portant to embrace in leadership. WHAT DO YOU SEE AS AN OPPORTU- NITY IN THIS FIELD? There are so many places on this island that are undiscov- ered and untouched. If we can find a way to explore them without hurting the land, well, wow. Because this whole experience of zip lining gives people permission to be themselves, one of the greatest gifts you can get.
that person passes their assessment is always a very good day.
WHAT DO YOU SEE IN THE FUTURE FOR THIS INDUSTRY? I guess my dis- sertation will answer that. The working title is “Commercialization of the ropes course and adventure parks sector.” The ultimate conclusion is to signpost the various changes that the wider industry has experienced because of commercialization.
Lewis’s nominators say she’s “truly the Swiss Army knife of Kohala Zipline and has shown a willingness to adapt to any situation thrown her way.” WHAT’S THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE RECEIVED? Respect is earned. I don’t ask anyone to do anything that I cannot do. I feel like that’s gotten me pretty far in life.
DREW STEWART CEO, Mica Moon Zip Tours, Wash.
W hen Drew Stewart’s father, Rik, was diagnosed 25 years ago with Non-Hod - gkin’s Lymphoma, he was given a life expectancy of 3-5 years, so “he had to figure out a revenue stream that would last longer than him and take care of the family,” says Drew. Rik founded Mica Moon, and Drew jumped in and grew from apprentice to the guy who runs the show. Says a nominator, “Drew has become a trainer, innovator, and respected guide and confidant of our staff. He is spearheading Mica Moon’s preparation for an ACCT operational review and ac- creditation, all while managing guides, operations, and taking our marketing to the next level. I have no doubt that Drew will be in ACCT leadership as soon as his plate isn’t so full.”
MICHAEL KIDD SkyPark Senior Instructor, Carlingford Adventure Centre, Ireland
S ince joining Carlingford Adventure Centre—Ireland’s largest adventure park—as an instructor trainee mid-pan- demic, Michael Kidd’s ability to adapt, react, and be proactive and prepared has propelled him up the company ladder. Today, as a senior instructor, he’s in charge of day-to-day park oper- ations, staff training, and on-site health and safety—all while working toward a degree in adventure tourism. “Michael is a breath of fresh air,” says one nominator. “He approaches his work with excitement and enthusiasm, which is demonstrated in the team he has built.”
WHAT’S THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE GOTTEN? At my first job I was told: ‘You can learn so much from other people, so seek it out.’ The value comes when you pass it on, too. I also was taught by my great grandmother, Granny Gwen: ‘When you see some - one who needs help, give them the same (experience) as others.’ We have Ireland’s only wheelchair-accessible zip line. I think the industry needs to do more of that. IS THERE A MOMENT WHEN YOU KNEW YOU WERE MEANT FOR THIS FIELD? When someone starts their training journey, you see them strug- gle, and then you see it click. The day
And by the way, “My Dad is still with us,” says Drew. “He’s doing great.”
WHAT’S YOUR LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY? There is a book called “Extreme Ownership: How the Navy Seals Lead and Win.” It’s a lot about giving your team permission to operate within their capabilities and using that to give them confidence and help them learn.
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