Annette Frisby always knew she would spend her career in hospitality. At Western Carolina University she studied parks and recreation management with a concentration in tourism and outdoor education. From there her ascent was swift. She made an appointment to volunteer at the local CVB on her first day volunteering at the Asheville Chamber of Commerce. The very next day, she was hired as sales assistant, spending weekends as a white water rafting guide. Three years later, Frisby became sales manager for the SMERF market at the local five-star property, Grove Park Inn and Resort, and the following year she was hired at Ridgecrest Conference Center as account manager. It’s been the right fit, keeping her engaged for 13 years. Why did she rise so rapidly in this industry? “It’s all about networking. In each job, I had people guiding me along the way as I traveled to the next level. When you know your niche, you’re good at it, and you find joy in it.” —K. Manfredi

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