Take Care of Your People, and They'll Take Care of Everything Else
Author, Advisor & Rocket Scientist
I'm Mark Waltrip—author, musician, chef, strategic advisor, and yes, an actual rocket scientist. I've spent my career helping organizations build cultures where people and performance thrive.
Author, Advisor & Rocket Scientist
I'm Mark Waltrip—author, musician, chef, strategic advisor, and yes, an actual rocket scientist. I've spent my career helping organizations build cultures where people and performance thrive.
A Unique Path to Leadership
My path has been anything but conventional. I started as an aerospace engineer on the first U.S. commercial space program, served 20 years in the Air Force, then helped grow a hospitality company from 2 regional resorts to 23 destination properties across the country.
Along the way, I wrote three books, opened 50+ restaurants, recorded a song with Lee Greenwood, and never stopped believing that the secret to success is simple: take care of your people.
30+
Years of Leadership
23
Destination Resorts
$3B+
In Development
8,000+
Team Members Led
What I Believe
The Things That Matter Most
Team-Centric Leadership
True empowerment comes from teaching your team members how to think like an owner.
Building Culture
Great cultures are built with leaders who genuinely care about their people.
Diversity & Inclusion
Foster diversity by creating opportunity and eliminating barriers for your team.
Internal Alignment
There are only two jobs: those who deliver to customers, and those who help them.
Data-Driven Results
Create reports and metrics that help your team achieve meaningful results.
Real Estate & Hospitality
Deep expertise at the intersection of physical assets, brand, and operations.
"Take care of your people, and they will take care of your customers. Take care of your customers, and they will take care of your business."
— Mark Waltrip
Working Together
How I Can Help
Every engagement is different, but the goal is always the same: helping people succeed.
Independent Board Member
Governance expertise and strategic oversight
Strategic Advisor
Ongoing counsel for complex challenges
Short-Term Engagements
Focused projects with defined scope
Executive Partnership
Deep, ongoing partnership and mentorship
Background
A Unique Perspective
Corporate Leadership
Previously served as COO of Central Florida Investments and Westgate Resorts, LTD., a billion-dollar hospitality and real estate company. Led 8,000+ team members and over $3 billion in acquisition and development.
Engineering Excellence
True-to-life "Rocket Scientist" who helped build the commercial launch facility for the Atlas satellite program. Propulsion and pneumatics engineer on 12 commercial space launches.
Military Service
Served 20 years in the United States Air Force. Led a highly decorated unit specializing in business reengineering of Government agencies.
Academic Achievement
BS and MS in Aerospace Engineering from University of Colorado—completed on the same day, graduating top of class. Member of 3 National Honor Societies.
Beyond Business
My Passion Projects
Having balance in your life is a necessary ingredient for long-term success.
Let's Start a Conversation
Whether you're exploring board opportunities, seeking strategic advice, or want to discuss how I might help your organization—I'd welcome the opportunity to connect.
Get in Touch