UMC Travel is an expert in Sandals and Beaches resorts. Sharon Lasater, who founded UMC Travel in 1999, is a "Preferred Sandals Specialist" (PSS). These specialists are recognized by the industry and the consumers as a Sandals expert. Among the qualifications to become a PSS, the agency is required to have a Certified Sandals Specialist on staff. Sharon achieved that designation in 1999 and through continual education and site inspections of all the resorts, has maintained her CSS and PSS status.

In addition to her PSS and CSS status, she is a Certified Travel Associate with the Travel Institute and a CLIA Master Cruise Counselor. She is also a member of the Fort Worth OSSN chapter.

UMC Travel is a member of the Caribbean Tourism Organization, the Cruise Lines International Association, the Travel Institute and the Outside Sales Support Network.