News and Resources for Airport Employees
PDX Next Takes Home Top Honor at 2024 Oregon Travel & Tourism Industry Achievement Awards

From the Travel Oregon newsroom


On Monday, April 14, 2025, the Oregon Tourism Commission (dba Travel Oregon) announced the recipients of the 2024 Oregon Travel & Tourism Industry Achievement Awards at the 2025 Oregon Governor’s Conference on Tourism in Portland.

More than 600 tourism industry professionals gathered at the Oregon Convention Center to share learnings and align to ensure not only remarkable visitor experiences across the state, but also tourism experiences that improve quality of life for residents; advances equity; respects the diversity of ecosystems, cultures and places of Oregon; and strengthens economic resilience for communities around the state.

Hosted by Travel Oregon in partnership with Travel Portland, this year’s theme, “Then, Now, Forever,” celebrates 40 years of a strong, sustainable tourism economy in Oregon while lighting the way for many more.

The Governor’s Award: PDX Next

The Governor’s Award represents the culmination of our industry’s deep appreciation for the long-time service and accomplishments of an individual or individuals who have enhanced the Oregon visitor experience and elevated the travel and tourism industry.

Travel Oregon CEO Todd Davidson addressed the crowd, honoring the series of transformative projects at Portland International Airport (PDX) collectively known as PDX Next, with the 2024 Governor’s Award. The $2 billion expansion of Portland International Airport (PDX), is aimed at modernizing the airport, including a new main terminal, a new Concourse B, and a new parking garage with the goal of creating a more sustainable, accessible and traveler-friendly airport experience.

“PDX Next is an extraordinary example of what Oregonians can achieve when we work together,” said Davidson. “From innovations such as the sustainable mass timber roof that wasn’t thought possible to the energy efficient, sustainable and resilient design and the focus on local vendors, Portland International Airport welcomes visitors the Oregon way. Through these innovations, and by supporting Tribal timber enterprises and revolutionizing production at small Oregon manufacturers, PDX Next sets the gold standard for airports nationwide. I have every confidence it will meet the needs of our growing tourism economy well into the future while reflecting our commitment to the people who live and work here.”

See the full list of Tourism Industry Achievement Awards, honoring standout people and tourism businesses or organizations striving to make Oregon a welcoming destination for all.