Visitor Products Cluster Working Group (VPCWG)
Welcome to the Visitor Products Cluster Working Group (VPCWG)
Since 2010, the Visitor Products Cluster Working Group (VPCWG) has been dedicated to strengthening Southeast Alaska’s visitor industry. As a regional coalition of businesses and stakeholders, we focus on initiatives that foster a more prosperous and sustainable future for the visitor sector.
Our members include private, for-profit firms, but we also welcome participation from partner agencies, local governments, non-profits, and community representatives. This inclusive approach allows us to understand diverse perspectives, address common challenges, and find innovative, mutually beneficial solutions.
By working together, we aim to advance shared goals and drive positive changes in Southeast Alaska’s visitor industry.
Action Initiatives
JEDC recently revived the VPCWG with funding from a five-year agreement with the U.S. Forest Service. The VPCWG has outlined seven (7) “Action Initiatives”, each led by a private-sector business leader, to inform their work going forward:
Sign up for the VPCWG mailing list!
Our Team
Jelena Richardson
Program Associate, VPCWG
As a developer in heart, I thrive on uncovering potential—in projects, ideas, and people. I bring a positive, solutions-oriented attitude to every challenge, finding opportunities for growth and innovation. My love of learning fuels my ability to adapt and explore new ideas.
I am a natural builder and problem-solver, driven by a passion for creating meaningful connections and fostering sustainable growth.
I am deeply committed to creating transformative visitor experiences while ensuring tourism benefits local communities and protects natural beauty. I build bridges between people, ideas, and industries to craft a vibrant, sustainable future for the region.
When I’m not collaborating with partners, you can find me exploring the Alaskan wilderness, learning to fly drone, and inspiring others to take the roads less traveled.