News to Know

How Can Business Travelers Keep Their Data Safe While on the Road?
(SOURCE: BUSINESS TRAVELER USA)

Business travel is back in business. At least, that’s according data provided by the WTTC’s 2024 Economic Impact Trends Report, which predicted that business travel spending in the US was set to hit $472BN last year—13.4 percent above the country’s record in pre-COVID 2019.

For all the hype surrounding remote meetings or conferences, there’s still no real replacement for face-to-face interactions. Being in the room where it happens provides the perfect opportunity to forge new connections and strengthen existing business relationships.

Industry Spotlight

February GBTA Volunteer of the Month

Shawnda Witterstaetter
Global Travel Category Manager
Dentsply Sirona

Shawnda is a dynamic leader in the business travel industry, currently serving as the President of the GBTA Kansas City Chapter and is the outsourced Global Travel Manager for Dentsply Sirona through GoldSpring Consulting. Shawnda has built an extensive network, establishing strong relationships with industry partners, suppliers, and fellow travel professionals. She actively contributes to GBTA on both a local and national level, serving as the CPC Chair for Inclusion and Culture, LinkedIn Co-Chair for the GBTA Chapter Presidents’ Council (CPC) and a Mentor for the WINiT program.

She believes in the power of collective success and is always looking for ways to open doors, create opportunities, and build a stronger, more connected travel community. For Shawnda, leadership is about lifting others up, creating spaces where people feel valued, and ensuring that everyone thrives together. Life is short, spread kindness.

Do you know a GBTA Volunteer who should be recognized for their contributions to our industry? Submit your nomination here.

Resources

Crisis24 Intelligence Brief

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