Katie Maltais, Executive Director of Auction of WA Wines
Photos by Rick Duval—Duval Images and Curbow Photo
When she majored in theatre arts and arts administration during her college years, Katie Maltais never imagined she would one day have a job involving wineries. Although her theatre program required her to perform on the stage, she knew this was not an appropriate career track for her. Spreadsheets and administration were much more to her liking, and so Katie has spent most of her career directing regional theatre companies. Most recently, she was Executive Director of the 5th Avenue Theatre in Seattle. But when she left that job and was trying to decide what to do next, a friend suggested she apply for the Executive Director position at the Auction of WA Wines, one of the largest wine charity auctions in the US. Although she knew nothing about wine except as a consumer, she did apply, and has now been in the position officially for nearly 6 months.
The Auction of WA Wines started in 1988, and to date has raised $72 million for its beneficiaries. Its mission is to raise awareness of and help support the WA wine industry, but also the larger community. The Auction’s principal beneficiaries include Seattle Children’s Hospital, WSU’s Enology and Viticulture Research Program, and Vital Wines whose proceeds go to supporting medical and dental care for vineyard workers. Each year, the auction holds at least three main fundraising events that typically raise over $4 million. A new event this year is Galentines, the ultimate girl’s night out held this year 2026 on 12 February from 7 to 10 pm in the Arctic Club Hotel in Seattle. The main events are in August, and this year they include a Winemaker’s Picnic on the grounds of Chateau Ste Michelle, and an opulent Gala event at the new sumptuous Somm Hotel in Woodinville. Learn much more about the Auction and these events in this interview.
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