Ian Gabrielson Email and Phone Number

I was born and raised in Darwin, Minnesota and received my Bachelors's and Master's degrees from the University of Minnesota. In 2008 I moved to Asia to pursue a career as a classroom teacher first in Taiwan, and then in Beijing. A passion for experiential education and learning outside the classroom led me in 2014 to The Hutong, China’s most sought-after experiential education company. As the Hutong’s Director of Education, I focus on championing our mission of providing EXCEPTIONAL cultural experiences in a FUN learning environment. I believe to my core in the power of experiences to inspire growth and have a positive impact, and work tirelessly to ensure that the experiences we offer ignite curiosity and joy, inspire wonder, foster empathy, encourage grit, and help our learners on their journey to become their best selves. I also believe in the Novelty Factor of experiences. Every conversation, meal, field, and alley is a canvass for growth and exploration.Over the past 8 years, I have played a key role in helping our programs become synonymous with being incredible experiences where places are brought to life and are a TON of FUN. At The Hutong, I wear many hats including sales, managing customer relations, leadership, strategy, operations, research and development, HR, training, and Senior Management. I love to focus on growing and improving the business, as well as helping foster an award-winning positive company culture. I embody our core values and aim consistently to do things right, do the right things, embrace challenges, stay humble, and always keep learning. Specialties: - Designing innovative and engaging learning experiences top to tail- Event, activity, and experience facilitation - Creative problem solving and process improvement - Program and project management - Setting ambitious, achievable growth plans that are in line with the company’s vision and values- Management and organizational skills needed to achieve those plans- Fostering an uplifting company culture- Leadership to raise performance and inspire colleagues- Interpersonal skills to connect with and lead, including communication and listening skills, as well as the ability to be assertive and persuasive in negotiations- Training, development, coaching, performance appraisal, and career development- The creativity, drive, passion, ambition, and grit to turn ideas into reality