Bio?

Jerry A. Estrada Jr.'s parents raised him with a passion for bringing people together and he's been focused on creating innovative immersive experiences aimed to deliver happiness throughout his life. In 2012, he earned an undergraduate degree in Event Management with a minor in Entrepreneurship from the University of Central Florida.

He joined Carnival Cruise Line three years later, leading the development of events and programs aimed at the travel advisor distribution channel. Currently, he serves as the Director of Trade Events & Programs creating large-scale events and national programs while managing a team that delivers 200 events with 400 event touchpoints annually.

Estrada Jr. turned 35 in October.

"Being recognized fills me with gratitude and it serves as a reminder that when you live your life with passion and lead with authenticity, remarkable achievements will come,"?Estrada Jr. said. "I¡¯d like to dedicate this honor to the ships in my life. To the Carnival ships, for providing me the opportunity to have a career that continues to exceed my wildest dreams, to my friendships (from personal to professional) who embrace my passionate ideas and creative spirit, and to my special partnerships; my family and my husband for always supporting my desire to aim higher and then some."

Industry Reference

"Jerry?Estrada?is a true travel industry rockstar and a leader in driving industry trends and innovations both today and into the future,"?said?Meegan Broussard, Sr. Director, Trade Marketing and Sales Communications at Carnival Cruise Line. "He is an incredible advocate for trade partners, a brand champion for his beloved Carnival Cruise Line and a respected resource among leaders throughout the business.? He is a force on the travel industry event circuit, delivering bigger-and-better-than-ever presence for Carnival and Carnival Corporation at Travel Weekly Leadership Forum, CLIA C360, CruiseWorld, ASTA Convention and the 50+ Agency conferences he coordinates annually.? His innovation in Carnival Cruise Line¡¯s proprietary programs is equally legendary, beating metrics year after year at the always sold out Agentpalooza, Why Use a Travel Advisor, Your Winning Business Plan and most recently, Your Peek at Paradise. ?He is known and loved by many and he¡¯s a ¡®favorites¡¯ contact on many industry leaders¡¯ contact lists."??

"Jerry embodies the spirit of the Forty Under Forty award, which recognizes and celebrates the rising stars shaping the future of travel," said Jenn Lee, President of Vacation Planners. "His rapid professional growth, commitment to excellence, creative prowess, and inclusive leadership make him an outstanding candidate. Jerry not only excels in his role at Carnival Cruise Lines but also inspires the next generation of travel industry professionals."

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