WORLEY — The Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel has promoted Michelle Whaley to the position of video gaming director, the latest of several promotions she’s achieved since starting her career at the casino in 2013, a press release said.
“I saw an opportunity to lead with impact, and I believe in our vision,” said Whaley. “It’s been such an honor to serve my tribe and the surrounding community. I’m filled with gratitude to continue to do so in this new role.”
Whaley began her professional journey at the gaming entertainment venue working in the hotel, then moved to the spa, before she found “my desire and place on the gaming floor.”
Starting as a casino floor attendant, she ascended through several positions prior to her most recent promotion.
During her time at Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel, Whaley has been named “Supervisor of the Year,” garnered an “Award of Excellence for Gaming,” and trained in the managerial development program.
Whaley said research-driven data and innovation help make the casino’s video gaming machines more appealing to guests.
The tribe allocated a special area on the floor to showcase some of the new game introductions, which they call their “Discovery Den.”
“We’ve partnered up with manufacturers to bring in their latest and greatest to our floor for our guests to be one of the first to experience them,” Whaley said. “We then evaluate player response and performance metrics to help indicate which titles gain traction and warrant broader placement.”
She said that balance allows them to keep the floor fresh and competitive, “without sacrificing the reliability and familiarity … It’s about evolution, not disruption — introducing innovation while respecting what already works.”
Since 1993, the Coeur d’Alene Tribe has operated the Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel, located 25 miles south of Coeur d’Alene.
