The 2026 TSOC Network Conference featured outstanding speakers, valuable content, and incredible networking opportunities. It was inspiring to see so many meaningful connections formed and the spirit of collaboration that continues to strengthen tourism along the Southern Oregon Coast.

Building a Stronger Coast

The conference began with a warm welcome from TSOC's Executive Director, Julie Miller, setting a collaborative tone. A fun "Tourism Connections Bingo" icebreaker helped attendees meet and share experiences. Key sessions focused on empowering local businesses, with Derek Tonn from the Southwestern Oregon SBDC providing valuable tools and financial strategies. The day also included an inspiring session with Noele Windeshime from Trailkeepers of Oregon, highlighting their work to maintain local hiking trails. The day concluded with a hosted reception at the Southwest Oregon Regional Airport.

Future-Focused Tools and Inclusivity

The second day focused on the future of tourism. Zack Martin's "Level Up with AI" workshop offered practical ways to use artificial intelligence for better guest experiences and streamlined operations. Dr. Pavlina McGrady then led a powerful session on accessibility, providing simple steps to make destinations more welcoming to all.

Thank you to everyone who attended, spoke, and sponsored this year's conference. We look forward to hosting you again in 2027.

A highlight of this year's TSOC Network Conference was the "South Coast Whale Tank" competition, where organizations pitched innovative regional projects to judges and attendees. This inspiring event culminated with the top ideas receiving funding to bring their visions to life.

First Place, $5,000

South Coast Gateway - Visitor Experience Wall: A video wall and acoustic panel to be installed in the gate area of the Southwest Oregon Regional Airport in North Bend. The installation will entice visitation by highlighting destinations and businesses on the South Coast.

Second Place, $2,000

Voices on the Wind - Community Wind Phone in Port Orford: Designed to be a quiet, respectful place to "call" loved ones in spirit and reflect on a life well-lived.

Third Place, $1,000 (Tie)

Wild Rivers Coast Story Lab - A low-cost, high-impact content engine that turns visitors and locals into co-creators of our regional story.

Cougar Lane Pocket Park: This pocket park in Gold Beach will feature "Zoey," an otter sculpture, as its centerpiece and main draw.

Congratulations to all our winners and many thanks to all participants. The depth of each presentation demonstrates the innovation and dedication of our South Coast tourism organizations.

As a valued member of our South Coast network, TSOC wants you to voice your perspective on tourism. Travel Oregon will use your feedback to help encourage responsible travel practices and it could shape the future of tourism in your community. High participation from our coastal communities ensures that rural and small-town voices are heard clearly.

The survey is short, anonymous, and open through March 31, 2026. Participants can enter to win up to $1,000 in Amazon gift cards.

Students from the Oregon Restaurant & Lodging Association's (ORLA) Fish Butchery and Hospitality Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs will soon be seeking summer jobs. These programs, offered at local high schools like North Bend High School and Pacific High School in Sixes, equip students with practical skills tailored to coastal industries.

If you have summer job openings or for more information, complete the Google form below or contact Maggie Michaels at Seafood Butchery (OCVA/OCI) (maggie@thepeoplescoast.com, 503-896-4531) or Rebecca Donley at ORLA (rdonley@oregonrla.org, 714-483-6542).

Oregon's hospitality and leisure sector is the state's third-largest private employer, providing more than 200,000 jobs and contributing $14 billion to the economy each year.

Data from Oregon Restaurant and Lodging Association (ORLA).