Staff
Junction Sheep Range - Riske Creek, BC | Grant HarderThe staff of the CCCTA is a small team of individuals that all work together to achieve their tourism goals. The CCCTA team adds value to the tourism sector by supporting local businesses, leading responsible growth & capacity improvement initiatives, stewarding tourism assets responsibly, and advocating on the sector’s behalf to the government.
Team Bio’s
Amy Thacker
CEO
As the leader of the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast, Amy is driven by her passion for rural tourism, agriculture and economic development. She’s had an outsized impact in her role championing award-winning programs such as the Gold Rush Trail, Great Bear Rainforest and Cariboo Reputation Recovery collaboratives. She’s a recognized leader in the provincial tourism efforts, serving on committees as diverse as the provincial Tourism Emergency Management Committee, the BC Regional Tourism Secretariat, Destination BC’s Tourism Marketing Committee and the Minister’s Tourism Recovery Task Force. Being raised on the land and connected to the land is part of her family culture – and those connections to the outdoors, along with her need to be self-sufficient, make her who she is – and fill her up. Born in Kamloops, and at times calling Cache Creek, Horsefly, Windermere, Summerland, Prince George, Savona, and the Yukon home, Amy never planned on making tourism a career. Before tourism, she worked in agriculture and retail – including stints as a buyer for Lammle’s Western Wear, as a teller and investment advisor for BMO, and with an accountant providing bookkeeping and audit services. She didn’t plan to work in tourism but got her start when she was convinced by Cache Creek councillor and long-time journalist Ida Makaro to work at Gold Country Communities Society, where her leadership into an award-winning GeoTourism project – the first in B.C.
- You should know:
- Amy has experience raising and showing dogs, sheep, cattle, horses and hogs.
- Favourite thing to do in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast:
- Almost anything outdoors – camping, hiking, riding, fishing, hunting
- Dream Destination:
- Australia, New Zealand and Spain are on the bucket list
- Heroes:
- Her grandmother, who witnessed incredible world changes and guided the family with class and compassion, and her children who are navigating the increasing volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity in the world.
Alexandra Shuba
Director of Regenerative Tourism
After attending college and working as an electrician in Alberta’s energy sector, Alexandra was drawn to the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast’s invaluable culture and environment. Her passion for challenge and drive to serve attracted her to the tourism industry. Specifically, starting with a career as an Accommodations General Manager. With experience driving economic performance growth, service excellence and social well-being, her efficiency-focused approach balances sustainability success. For Alexandra, the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast remains a wild environment, and as CCCT’s Director of Regenerative Tourism, she’s part of the team working to protect the land without limits.
- You should know:
- While living in Golden, BC, she devoted time to youth sports by holding annual basketball camps and coaching Highschool girls’ basketball.
- Favourite thing to do in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast:
- Fishing, waterskiing, and gardening. It’s all part of the slow paced, family and friend-oriented lifestyle.
- Dream Destination:
- Luskentyre Scotland, Donegal Ireland, Oslo Norway
- Heroes:
- If fictional characters are allowed, it’s Severus Snape from Harry Potter. In real life, its US Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
Marra Stewart
Project Manager
Marra has a background in a variety of fields from administration to farming, and everything in between, including a Bachelors of Science degree in Complementary and Alternative Medicine, through Akamai University in Hilo Hawaii. She started her varied career with her first job working the pony rides and miniature train at Stanley Park, having grown up in the lower mainland. As a young adult she found herself living in the Alberta interior as an auto-parts technician and a co-owner/ operator of a small cow/calf operation. Moving back to BC, Marra found a new calling in the world of Energy Healing and has been in private practice for the last 15 years, as a practitioner, teacher and workshop facilitator. She moved to Lillooet in the spring of 2021, being called by the beauty and power of the mountains and has since come full circle back to tourism as a Board of Directors for Lillooet Tourism. With the marriage of Energy Medicine and travel, one of Marra’s main interests is in the Transformational Tourism sector and hopes to encourage the growth of this industry in the CCC region, where the beauty and the magic of this land makes it easy to open your heart. Marra’s background will allow her to support the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism in all its initiatives, working towards encouraging responsible tourism and inviting all to come and experience first hand this stunningly beautiful region.
- You should know:
- Marra has a deep love for Mother Earth and all her inhabitants and camping is one of her happy places.
- Favourite thing to do in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast:
- Explore and be immersed in the amazing wilderness and fabulous history of the region.
- Dream Destination:
- Bhutan, Egypt, India, El Camino De Santiago in Spain, and anywhere the Dolphins and Whales swim.
- Heroes:
- Pioneers such as David Attenborough, Jacques Cousteau, Rudolph Steiner, Carl Jung, Jody Wilson-Raybould, just to name a few.
Jenny Bakken
Marketing Manager
Jenny is the 4th generation of a homestead that dates back to 1888 in Columbia Valley (South of Chilliwack, BC on the 49th parallel). There she was raised on a hobby farm and learned the value of family and heritage and cultivated a responsible and solid work ethic in caring for her grandparents, the farm animals and particularly her horses. The summers were filled with running around a rustic family camping facility with horseshoe pits, hop scotch blocks and swings from tree branches that was enjoyed by many. With her grounded roots and connection with horses, she also has a passion for creativity. After achieving her Marketing & Sales Certificate and Fashion Diploma, she was able to explore her own fashion business, but a tragic fire changed her career goals and lead her towards the Restaurant and Wine Industry that lasted a memorable 15 years. For the past 20 years in the vast land and big blue skies of the South Cariboo, she has been living the dream. She took on the labouring task as General Contractor and aspired the build of her log home and barn. Her motto is “whatever you think of most often will come true”. She is looking forward to applying her 15 years of marketing experience to the CCCTA team. Her desire is to be part of enhancing the attraction to visitors that are local or come from afar, so they can experience the breathtaking region that offers an abundance of incredible outdoor activities and astounding views like no other area, as well as support local economic growth.
- You should know:
- Roasting a hot dog on a campfire with her dog and good company is better than an expensive bottle of wine. She believes that ‘honesty is the best policy’ and ‘hard work always pays off’.
- Favourite thing to do in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast:
- After a day’s work, she wants to get outside to the garden, the horses or hit the back country and catch a sunset in any form or anyplace that the seasons have to offer.
- Dream Destination:
- To horseback ride The Rainbow Mountains in the Cariboo-Chilcotin, as well as, one day go to Norway to visit her father’s descent.
- Heroes:
- Jenny’s Dad provided her, his words of wisdom to “move up north and live your dream” and to “use the talents you were gifted with and expand on them”.
Terra Setterstrom
Digital Marketing & Social Media Specialist
Terra grew up in Langley, British Columbia, where time outdoors sparked her love of nature, creativity, and the stories that make places special. She began her career in finance before moving into marketing and design, creating marketing materials, building websites, and connecting with people. Whether she’s creating digital content, painting, gardening, or taking photos, Terra loves bringing ideas and meaningful moments to life. Nature, animals, and life’s simple pleasures are a constant source of inspiration. The Cariboo Chilcotin Coast took her breath away with its vast landscapes and the feeling that there is always more to explore. Much of the region remains undiscovered by many, which makes sharing its beauty feel especially meaningful.
- Favourite thing to do in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast:
- Sightseeing, exploring hidden places, and discovering the incredible beauty that makes the region so unforgettable.
- Dream Destination:
- Ireland, Peru, and Sweden.
- Heroes:
- People who refuse to let life’s challenges define them. Instead, they use those experiences to discover their strengths, follow what brings them joy, and build a life around what they love.
Dakota Solmonson
Marketing Coordinator
Born and raised in Northern BC, Dakota has a deep love for the rugged, yet simple beauty British Columbia has to offer. After graduating from the University of Northern British Columbia with a BSc in Wildland Conservation and Recreation and a Certificate in Traditional Ecological Knowledge, Dakota began her career in the tourism industry in her hometown of Prince George as a Visitor Information Councillor at the Prince George Visitor Centre. It was there that her passion for helping operators and communities reach their goals sustainably and respectfully took root, while always keeping an eye toward helping visitors bring home memories that last a lifetime.
Now, as Marketing Coordinator for CCCT, Dakota is excited to explore everything this beautiful region has to offer and help bring visitors from across the world into the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast.
- You should know:
- In her free time, Dakota is either planning Wild About Lheidli Key’oh - Prince George (WALK PG), which is an outdoor education festival, or she has her nose stuck in a book or her fibre art(s), preferably outdoors if it allows.
- Favourite thing to do in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast:
- Some of my favourite memories have been driving along HWY 97 in the summer, eating fresh corn from Soda Creek Farms
- Dream Destination:
- Iceland and Africa, but it's a goal to visit as many countries as I can.
- Heroes:
- My parents and my best friend. Despite all my crazy ideas, they are always down for any sort of adventure I throw at them.
Julia Genstch
Travel Trade & Media Coordinator
- You should know:
- Julia has a passion for horseback riding and has competed in several gymkhanas. She also holds a ROC-A radio license, allowing her to communicate directly with aircraft crews, and is a certified diver. She loves exploring the world and is deeply grateful to call Canada home.
- Favourite thing to do in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast:
- There is nothing I love more than saddling up and exploring the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast on horseback. Whether it is open rangeland or quiet forest trails, every ride uncovers a new corner of this beautiful region.
- Dream Destination:
- Costa Rica is still very much on my bucket list! I have been lucky enough to visit so many wonderful places already that there aren't too many left to check off.
- Heroes:
- Stephan - my partner
Paige Call
Destination Development Manager
Paige has an unwavering appreciation for the natural beauty witnessed across the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast. This admiration was instilled in her by growing up on a 4th generation cattle ranch, where the land, the animals, and the solitude bring her peace of mind and heart. That is the beauty of the CCC, and what she hopes every visitor has the opportunity to experience. After Paige’s completion of the CCCT’s Summer Student Program she transitioned into the Emergency Management Department, and has now settled into the Destination Development Department. This diverse experience within the company gives her a balanced and comprehensive perspective in her role. Her passion for building resiliency in the region’s tourism sector is influenced by her love of the area and informed by her Bachelor of Arts Degree through the University of British Columbia. Paige’s studies led to a major in Political Science and minor in Sociology, which was sparked through her curiosity of understanding and explaining social action and organization through their unique political, historical, and institutional contexts.
- You should know:
- If she didn’t have stage fright she would pursue stand-up comedy.
- Favourite thing to do in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast:
- Enjoy summer on the lakes, boating and swimming.
- Dream Destination:
- Albania and Madagascar
- Heroes:
- Paige’s heroes are those who have broken barriers and have a profound dedication to social justice. Some of these people include Angela Davis, Richa Nigar, Naomi Klein, James Baldwin, and Vine Deloria.
Patti Gerhardi
Regional Tourism Advisor
Patti brings over 25 years of experience working in rural British Columbia and Alberta, supporting local organizations with community and corporate affairs, project management, event production, grant writing, and other business support services. In her role as a multi-national corporate affairs representative, Patti helped bring much-needed dollars into small communities and open doors so these communities could grow. Her 20-plus years as a small business owner means she can relate to the challenges and opportunities tourism operators face. In her personal life, Patti is a big supporter of sporting organizations that allow kids to work hard to achieve goals and experiences and become a part of a community. In contrast to the terrible and easy bad paths people can take, she says sports like rodeo and hockey allow kids to see better and healthy choices and understand there are welcoming choices.
- You should know:
- One of her favourite tourism jobs has been sharing the attributes of the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast to the visitors at the 10 day Quartzsite RV Show in Arizona.
- Favourite thing to do in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast:
- Travelling the region to meet visitors and stakeholders.
- Dream Destination:
- A sunny, warm horse event related community with friends and family.
- Heroes:
- Without a word of a lie, Amy Thacker. I truly admire her amazing capacity as a good, good person. She is smart, has an amazing memory, and the biggest heart of any person I know.
Maryclaire Snowball
Regional Tourism Advisor
After taking some time to study and expand her creative practice within the Fine Arts, Maryclaire was drawn to the diverse study of tourism. She later completed her diploma in Tourism Management at Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops, BC. Maryclaire brings forward a genuine excitement for the industry combining both a strong foundation in creative thinking and practical tourism skills. She is dedicated to showcasing the unique attractions and experiences this region has to offer, believing that there’s a little something for everyone here.
Outside of work, Maryclaire balances her professional enthusiasm with seasonal interests. During the summer, she can be found working on her families farm. While the winter months are dedicated to snowmobiling, as she is an active volunteer for the local snowmobile club. Her blend of local knowledge and lifelong ties to the region allows Maryclaire the opportunity to provide authentic recommendations to help enhance visitor’s experience.
- You should know:
- Maryclaire continues to develop her green thumb, as she spends most of her free time to the art of gardening.
- Favourite thing to do in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast:
- One of Maryclaire’s favourite things to do within the region is exploring hidden gems while road tripping.
- Dream Destination:
- Ireland
- Heroes:
- Her family
Sara Leverington
Regional Tourism Advisor
Michael McMurray
Accessibility Program Assistant
I bring years of personal experience advocating for accessibility growth: I volunteered for Spinal Cord Research (SCI); I worked with Wheelchair Sports BC as a Spokesperson; and I advocated for active outdoor living to overcome barriers. My professional career brings problem solving skills, a positive attitude, and a desire to promote team collaboration. My home in the Cariboo and my love of the outdoors inspires me to venture out to learn and explore all that this beautiful region has to offer.
- You should know:
- Michael has a deep passion for all animals, especially his four dogs. He also enjoys wood working and is a Motor Sport enthusiast.
- Favourite thing to do in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast:
- Travel around exploring the rugged back roads, lakes, and historic buildings.
- Dream Destination:
- Return to Motor Sport Racing.
- Heroes:
- The people at the Rick Hansen Found that advocate and take action on human rights and independence.