Meet Our 2025 Employee and Manager of the Year
We recently honored two team members for going above and beyond in their jobs in 2025.
According to Pete our managing director of Wilderness at the Smokies and Soaky Mountain Waterpark, “Providing outstanding customer service is what makes guests loyal and return for future visits. This is reason we have our annual awards programs, to encourage our team members to perform at their best all of the time. We recognize outstanding employees monthly and annually.”
The 2025 Employee of the Year was Steve, who was recently promoted to assistant security manager and has been with Wilderness at the Smokies since 2021. In this position, Steve supports the oversight of the company’s asset protection efforts, including the safety of guests and staff and the prevention of theft and inventory loss. This role develops and implements security standards and ensures compliance by all company personnel. The Assistant Security Manager promotes and maintains the company’s security, property protection, transportation, and lost-and-found programs for both employees and guests, performing duties directly or through subordinate supervisors.
Steve holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education from Ashford University and was a member of the US Air Force from 1987-2007. He resides in New Center in Sevierville TN.
According to his supervisor, “Steve is always pleasant and helpful with guests and employees alike. When a call comes in and Security is needed, you will find him there to assist with whatever is needed. He is very skilled in his job duties, knows what is expected, and can be kind yet firm with guests. When having to deal with an upset guest or an altercation, having Steve on hand is always a sign that things will be handled professionally and safely.”
The 2025 “Manager of the Year” was Elizabeth, who has been part of Wilderness at the Smokies team since 2020. As the Human Resources Benefits Manager, Elizabeth is responsible for administering employee benefits like retirement plans, leave policies, wellness program and insurance policies such as health, life and disability.
Elizabeth holds a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management from University of Tennessee Knoxville. She resides in Greater Knoxville.
According to her team members, “Elizabeth demonstrates extraordinary leadership, flawless execution on key departmental responsibilities, and shows unparalleled personal commitment to her co-workers. She consistently exhibits a positive and kind attitude, making her an approachable and reliable resource for all employees. She is always ready, willing, and able to help. Her actions effectively eliminate common stressors, indirectly supporting sustained performance across the company.
Both Steve and Elizabeth received $2,000 and a week’s paid vacation as a thank you for their jobs well done.