At the heart of the council's mission is a commitment to responsible innovation, focused on governance, education and best practices. The group is developing ethical standards that safeguard data privacy. Through thought leadership, curated case studies and accessible educational resources, the council aims to demystify AI for finance and technology professionals while bringing the broader industry along in the process. Its first major initiative, Workforce 20X at HITEC 2026 in San Antonio, will be followed by the launch of an AI portal featuring webinars, whitepapers, case studies and articles. Looking ahead, plans include the development of a hospi-
tality-specific AI certificate, further building a framework that empowers professionals to adopt AI technologies with clarity and confidence.
Equally important is the council’s role as a collaborative, global community. Offered without participation fees, the committee is structured to ensure diverse perspectives and broad engagement from across the industry. Through virtual meetings and ongoing knowledge-sharing, the council fosters a supportive environment where professionals can explore AI’s potential, share experiences and build confidence in its application. Guided by co-chairs Michael Goldrich and Shannon McCallum, the HFTP AI Council stands as both a think tank and a catalyst, equipping hospitality leaders with the tools, confidence and vision needed to embrace AI as a transformative force for the future.
AI COUNCIL
CO-CHAIRS:
- Michael Goldrich
- Shannon McCallum
MEMBERS:
- Ajay Aluri, Ph.D.
- Nasim Binesh
- Mihai Bote, CDAIO | CHTP
- Jeff Bzdawka
- Robert Cole
- Greg Duff
- Mark A. Gage, CHT, MMBA
- Dale Gomez
- Blake E. Kennedy, MBA
- Minwoo Lee, Ph.D., MBA, CHIA
- Steven Nicholas Marais
- Robert Matsuoka
- Ian Millar, CHTP, Paragon
- Christina Ortiz
- Fredrik Sjoberg
- Burcin Turkkan Zencirli
- Tariq Valani
- Nicholas Watson
- Jay Yao
STAFF LIAISONS:
- Arlene Ramirez, Ed.D., MBA, CHAE, CHE, CHIA, CAHTA
- Frank I. Wolfe, CAE, FIH
