Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer appointed Darren Ing to the Michigan Travel Commission.
Ing is the director of the Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicle & Campgrounds (MARVAC), and the president of the Tourism Industry Coalition of Michigan (TICOM). He holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications from Northern Michigan University. His appointed term will commence Dec.6, 2021 and expires Aug. 20, 2025.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account with data from 2020, Michigan had the fifth highest state share of RV revenue at $583.1 million. Additionally, tourism is one of the top three industries in the state alongside manufacturing and agriculture. John Lindley, MARVAC president and CEO, said Ing will help provide the RV and camping industry much-needed visibility.
“I think, unquestionably, tourism is a huge component —vital to Michigan’s economy,” Lindley said.
“Ensuring that camping and the RV lifestyle are at the forefront of all conversations related to the overall planning and marketing for tourism dollars is essential,” Lindley said.
Lindley praised Ing on his wealth of knowledge on Michigan tourism issues and proven passion for growing the RV industry.
“The RV and camping industries are integral components of Michigan’s thriving tourism sector,” Lindley said, “and the Michigan Travel Commission and Governor Whitmer are wise and fortunate to involve Ing’s expertise.”
The Michigan Travel Commission was established to promote, maintain, and develop the $2.9 billion Michigan travel industry. The commission assists the Michigan Travel Bureau with the development of a comprehensive long-range master plan and annually assesses the activities and accomplishments of the Michigan Travel Bureau.
