2026 Next Gen: Mariah Hodapp
Mariah Hodapp is one of the 2026 Next Gens, as nominated by Groups Today readers for making a difference in the industry with their fresh, progressive perspective.
Mariah Hodapp is the Director of Operations at Fly My Group, where she leads a talented team focused on group air travel logistics and customer experience. Since joining the company in 2016, she has played an integral role in its continued growth.
Hodapp was first exposed to the industry as a traveling student.
“I first experienced group travel through my school’s 8th grade trip to Washington, DC, followed by an 11th grade program to Costa Rica,” Hodapp recalled. “Both were incredible experiences that shaped me and sparked my love for exploring the world with others. I’ve always been passionate about travel and the way it brings people together.”
The group travel industry, Hodapp explained, blends everything she enjoys most: building relationships, solving challenges, and creating shared experiences that connect people through meaningful journeys.
With a passion for collaboration and innovation, Hodapp is committed to driving operational excellence and empowering her team to deliver outstanding service to everyone Fly My Group serves.
“This industry is constantly evolving, and there’s always something new to learn, adapt to, or improve,” she said. “I’m especially intrigued by how technology helps us work smarter by streamlining processes, increasing efficiency, and improving the way we serve our customers. We’re also fortunate to have such a talented tech team supporting our work every step of the way!”
One of Hodapp’s favorite accomplishments in her career so far has been leading growth within her team.
“I’ve been lucky enough to be part of growing our once small team into a structured operations department,” she shared. “Working alongside our amazing owners and leadership team, and seeing individuals within the team grow in their careers while the company grows with them, has been incredibly rewarding.”
It’s fulfilling, Hodapp shared, to know that she’s helped build a culture of growth, accountability, and teamwork that drives both success and satisfaction.
“My goals for the future center around leadership development and continued growth,” she explained. “I'm excited to be part of the Fly My Group team and to keep growing both personally and professionally as we think strategically, embrace new technology, and elevate the client experience. Looking ahead, I'm looking forward to continuing shaping Fly My Group’s operational strategy while also contributing to the broader travel industry.”
Mariah Hodapp is one of the 2026 Next Gens, as nominated by Groups Today readers for making a difference in the industry with their fresh, progressive perspective. Read the full feature here.
Photos courtesy of Mariah Hodapp.
Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for Groups Today.
