(McKinney – April 13, 2026) Visit McKinney proudly announces that Aaron Werner, Visit McKinney Executive Director, has earned the distinguished Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME) credential through Destinations International—the tourism industry’s highest individual educational achievement.
The CDME designation recognizes professionals who demonstrate exceptional experience, leadership, and commitment to professional development in destination management. By earning this credential, Werner joins an elite group of industry leaders dedicated to advancing excellence in the travel and tourism industry.
“Congratulations to those who have earned their CDME credential,” said Don Welsh, president and CEO of Destinations International. “These leaders have invested in their education and are now equipped with the knowledge needed to adapt to and manage the increasing change and competition facing our industry.”
The CDME program is the only certification specifically designed for destination management professionals, preparing them to leverage their experience and apply strategic leadership, vision, and business practices to their organizations.
Werner says, “The CDME journey challenged me to think bigger about our role in shaping destinations, not just promoting them. It pushed me to focus on the long-term positive impact tourism has on communities, from strengthening the tax base to supporting local businesses and helping create places people are proud to call home.”
Werner has been with Visit McKinney for over four years and has been instrumental in the growth and development of the tourism department within the City of McKinney. This milestone underscores his dedication to excellence and reinforces Visit McKinney’s commitment to leadership in the travel and tourism industry.
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About Destinations International
Destinations International is the world’s largest resource for official destination organizations, convention and visitors’ bureaus (CVBs) and tourism boards. With more than 7,500 members and partners from over 700 destinations, the association represents a powerful forward-thinking and collaborative community around the world. For more information, visit www.destinationsinternational.org.
About Visit McKinney
Visit McKinney strives to bring visitors to our community to generate economic impact by promoting and developing McKinney as a destination for business and leisure travelers. The organization's goal is to help all visitors fully experience McKinney’s historic charm and friendly, vibrant atmosphere, and to enjoy themselves so much, they'll return again with their family and friends. Visit McKinney works with individuals, tour operators, brides, reunion groups, meeting and event planners, travel writers and other journalists, and our tourism partners (attractions, hotels, restaurants, and cultural venues) to help visitors enjoy their time in McKinney. Our services are all free of charge. Learn more at visitmckinney.com.
