Olivia Blalock

I attribute my success to the values my father and grandfather instilled in me—work ethic, perseverance, and the importance of building a legacy. Faith is central to everything I do, guiding me through challenges and keeping me grounded, even far from family.

I trust the process and value every experience, learning from people and moments along the way. I also prioritize my team’s growth, ensuring they have the resources and support to achieve their goals and open new opportunities.

The best career advice I’ve ever received came from my supervisor, who has been an incredible leader and mentor. She has motivated me, cultivated an environment that supports growth, and helped me recognize and leverage my strengths.

I am always open to new opportunities to encourage and mentor other young women. I also value connecting with high-achieving professionals in the hospitality industry, learning from their experiences, and expanding my knowledge and horizons.

My advice to young women entering hospitality is to trust the process and embrace every experience. Challenges—whether learning new systems, improving a property’s guest satisfaction, or relocating across the country—are opportunities for growth. Say yes to them, because they will teach you more than you can imagine.

Be open to learning from others, observing how they communicate, present themselves, and navigate the industry. Remember that success isn’t just about you—it’s also about supporting your team, building strong connections, and cultivating a network that can guide and uplift you throughout your career.

One of the biggest challenges in hospitality right now is the variation in work culture across regions. Coming from the fast-paced East Coast, adjusting to the more laid-back Midwest has been a learning experience. Staffing shortages and changing management can also create pressure on teams, impacting even the most capable leaders. Ensuring a safe and secure environment for associates, especially when management isn’t always present, is another ongoing challenge.

On the opportunity side, there is tremendous potential in building strong, consistent teams and delivering a reliable product and experience. Revenue management also offers growth, from optimizing inventory and destination points to creating marketable promotions for guests and owners. Hospitality offers countless paths for development—I’ve had the chance to work across eight different vacation club properties and explore relocations from the Virgin Islands to San Francisco and Orlando before settling in Vail.

The values that guide me in both work and life are faith, family, and building a lasting legacy. My faith is central, giving me strength and perspective, especially being far from family in Colorado. Family taught me the importance of hard work, perseverance, and pursuing what I’m passionate about, while always thinking about the future and the legacy I leave for the next generation.

I also value professionalism, helping others grow, financial responsibility, and community involvement. Whether mentoring my team, volunteering, or engaging with my community, I strive to make a positive impact while maintaining integrity in everything I do.