Ray Kohler
Retired | Co-Founder
Ray, a Vietnam veteran of the United States Army, grew up in Portugal and Hawaii, gaining a unique global perspective. After serving our great nation from 1965-1968, Ray spent fourteen years working for TWA, further broadening his international experience. In 1981, he joined Hoffman Travel as Director of the Airport Meet and Greet department, where he worked alongside Junko. Their collaboration led to the founding of Airport Assistance Worldwide in 2004. Since retirement, Ray has enjoyed volunteering at a local animal shelter, demonstrating his commitment to his community.
Junko Okamura
Retired | Co-Founder
Junko moved to America from Japan when she was fifteen, not knowing any English. She quickly learned the language and eventually settled in Los Angeles, raising a family while balancing a job at Continental Airlines. Junko worked with Ray at Hoffman Travel for 21 years after her time at Continental. In 2004, Junko and Ray founded Airport Assistance Worldwide, an illustration of Junko’s entrepreneurial spirit and leadership. Since her retirement in 2022, Junko has devoted her time to tending to her orchids and creating precious memories with her grandchildren and the family dog.
Michele Ho
Principal
Michele, a key figure in the family business since its inception in 2004, has now taken the reins in 2022, succeeding Ray and Junko. Her unwavering commitment to the business’s growth while preserving its reputation for superior customer service and high-quality VIP airport concierge services is a testament to her dedication. With her two decades of experience, Michele is determined to carry Ray and Junko’s legacy forward and lead the business into a new era of growth and success.
CFO
Chief Financial Officer
Our Chief Financial Officer plays a crucial role in the business by managing risk, developing budgets and forecasts, analyzing profits and losses, and enhancing the company’s capital structure. With a wealth of experience spanning several decades in the hospitality industry, our CFO brings a robust background in management to the table. In addition to his professional expertise, he has a deep passion for cinema and possesses an impressive ability to accurately identify famous movie quotes!
Chris
Office Manager
With a background in travel, Chris brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise, rounding out our team of specialists here at Airport Assistance Worldwide. Chris joined us as an Office Manager and has proven leadership skills from the onset. Chris’s ability to quickly analyze the fine details of comprehensive bookings while multi-tasking as a team supervisor reassures us of their adaptability in a fast-paced environment.
Nanette
Senior International & Group Specialist
With a remarkable journey that began as an LAX greeter under the leadership of Ray and Junko back in the 1990s, Nanette has become our longest-tenured staff member with Airport Assistance Worldwide. Her expertise lies in domestic and international bookings and large group meets. She is our in-house LAX expert, with intricate knowledge of Los Angeles International Airport. Nanette’s passion for setting up meet and greets is evident in her adept handling of last-minute, time-sensitive requests.
Janet
Senior International Specialist
Janet, one of our leading experts at international bookings, begins her day at the break of dawn, meticulously liaising with our global suppliers to orchestrate high-quality VIP arrangements for our esteemed clientele around the world.
When she’s not intricately coordinating meet-and-greets across various continents, Janet revels in precious moments with her family and indulges in the transcendent ambiance of live music at concerts.
Elbert
Outside Sales
As an Outside Sales Consultant, Elbert’s role extends beyond developing and maintaining client relationships. He also plays a crucial part in educating clients about our services, attending industry-related trade shows and sales events, and keeping up with current market trends. With over 10 years at the company, he has successfully recruited numerous top-tier client agencies.
A Los Angeles native and devoted father, Elbert enjoys bonding with his daughters over weightlifting sessions. He also likes restoring and tinkering with his beloved ’50 Ford Shoebox and ’62 Mercury Comet in his spare time.
Jeffrey
Reservations Specialist
Jeffrey, a seasoned professional in the meet-and-greet industry, has been with the family business since 2012. His casual, laid-back style belies his deep expertise in domestic and international bookings. Jeffrey’s ability to efficiently handle even the most complicated bookings makes him a reliable and well-rounded employee.
Outside of work, Jeff’s love for the outdoors is evident. He can often be found on the beach, playing volleyball, biking, swimming, or bodysurfing.
Luis
Reservations Specialist
Luis’s professional journey began in the hospitality sector at LAX, where he worked with Elbert. His career turned when his former co-worker introduced him to Airport Assistance Worldwide. This transition marked a pivotal moment in Luis’s career. His favorite part of the job is setting up international meets for locations he’s been eyeing to visit. Outside of work, he enjoys training in Muay Thai, reading/writing music, and exploring ancient and historical sites while traveling.
Joe
Reservations Agent
Meet Joe, the newest addition to the Airport Assistance family. Joe’s role as a Reservations Agent is infused with his passion for the film industry. His keen attention to detail and love for movies fuel his excitement whenever a new booking comes in. Joe’s positive and cooperative attitude makes him a valuable team player, spreading cheer and a can-do spirit among his colleagues.
Oscar
Administrative Support
Oscar is an integral part of our administrative support team. He goes above and beyond to provide exceptional team support, expertly handles data entry, and efficiently manages various clerical duties. When he’s not impressing everyone at work, Oscar can be found rocking out on his guitar, hunting for vintage vinyl records, and staying in top shape through his passion for running.