Suzanne Neufang found her way to the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, drawn by its stunning location and rich ties to the Pacific region. Today, she serves as the CEO of the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), working to unite the business travel sector.
“Growing up in North America’s heartland, seeing Asia and the Pacific’s history through the lens of Hawaiʻi was eye-opening,” Neufang shares.
During her studies in communication at UH, she developed a keen interest in telecommunications. It was clear to her how crucial technology is for isolated islands. Inspired by her professors, she researched complex topics like the Integrated Services Digital Network, an early digital standard that transformed how data and voice were transmitted.
“If it weren’t for the encouragement from both professors and peers, I wouldn’t have pushed myself to explore so deeply,” Neufang reflects. “Mixing theoretical knowledge with practical application has been a huge part of my journey.”
After earning her master’s in 1992, Neufang spent the next ten years at Hawaiʻi Public Television and GTE Hawaiian Tel. These experiences reinforced her belief that communication is essential to our human connections.
“Telecom and broadcasting create mediated connections, but travel offers face-to-face interactions. Shifting to travel was a natural step for me,” she explains.
At GBTA, Neufang’s mission is to foster community, education, and advocacy within the industry. She focuses on providing innovative solutions for businesses that need to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing environment. The skills she honed at UH continue to guide her as she builds connections around the globe.
As Neufang leads GBTA, the travel industry faces new challenges. According to a recent report, business travel is expected to return to pre-pandemic levels by 2024, driven by companies recognizing the importance of face-to-face meetings. This rebound underscores the value of in-person connections that Neufang champions in her role.
In a world increasingly shaped by digital interactions, Neufang’s journey highlights the timeless significance of direct human contact. As more people return to travel, her insights and leadership will be vital in shaping the future of the business travel landscape.
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