Making a Career in Travel & Tourism: What the Experts Want You to Know 

When I first wrote about careers in travel and tourism, I highlighted insights from a handful of professionals I met at a conference—voices full of passion, optimism, and gratitude for the work they do. (You can read that original blog post here.) Since then, I’ve conducted dozens of interviews with tourism leaders from across North America, asking two simple but revealing questions:

1. If you were to describe this industry to a future tourism professional, what would you say? 
2. What has been the secret to your success in this industry?

Their stories form a vivid portrait of tourism today not just as an industry, but as a community and a calling. Here’s what I’ve learned from them. 

A Purpose-Driven Career 

Almost every leader described tourism as more than a job. It’s work rooted in purpose—improving quality of life, supporting small businesses, and building stronger, more welcoming communities. 

“Every day you’re making a contribution to the quality of life and the people who live and depend on tourism.” – Cheryl Kilday, Destination North Myrtle Beach 

“We exist for the betterment of our communities and residents.” – Leonard Hoops, Visit Indy 

For those drawn to meaning, service, and community impact, tourism offers the chance to do well by doing good. 

A People-Centered Industry 

Relationships are the heart of tourism  with travelers, partners, and peers alike. Many interviewees described the field as a “family,” united by generosity and shared passion. 

“Once you just jump in, you find out it’s a big family and you’re just gonna have fun.” – Aaron Brown, Visit Cheyenne 

“The friendships, the partnerships, just the amazing people. If you have that passion, nurture it.” – Julie Payne, The Hershey Company 

“It’s energy… it’s not as much work as it is a mission … to deliver opportunities and change lives.” – Bud Geissler, Group Collect 

This isn’t a solitary career path. It’s built on collaboration, hospitality, and the joy of connection. 

Opportunity Everywhere 

Tourism is an industry of constant movement not only for travelers, but for professionals, too. It’s full of possibility for those who embrace curiosity and lifelong learning. 

“It’s limitless… there are so many pathways you can maneuver into.” – Darrin Thurman, Visit Springfield 

“You could be a destination marketer, work in attractions, become a tour operator  the sky’s the limit.” – Catherine Prather, National Tour Association 

“It means a lifetime of opportunity … the opportunities are endless and they’re incredible.” – Greg Takehara, Tourism Cares 

From local DMOs to international tour operations, the industry rewards curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to try something new. 

Collaboration Over Competition 

One theme echoed in nearly every conversation: the power of working together. Success in tourism is rarely achieved alone; it thrives on partnerships. 

“We are never competitors; we’re collaborators serving travelers.” – Greg Caren, Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau 

“I see partnerships as anyone you can work with to enhance what you’re doing … operators, DMOs, other provinces.” – Marcy Barnes, Government of New Brunswick 

Collaboration isn’t just a buzzword. It’s how destinations grow, communities flourish, and travelers experience the best of a place. 

Resilience and Optimism 

The pandemic tested the industry in ways no one anticipated yet resilience became tourism’s defining trait. Leaders spoke of recovery not as a return to normal but as a rebirth. 

“With change comes opportunities… I dare ya. Let’s do something new.” – Jill Shorkey, Michigan’s Great Lakes Bay Region 

“We are a resilient bunch. You learn to adapt. There’s no playbook, but we lean on each other and keep going.” – Darryl Leggieri, Discover Saratoga 

Tourism professionals are problem-solvers and optimists. They see obstacles as detours, not dead ends. 

Creativity, Storytelling, and Joy 

Every day in tourism is an act of creativity: crafting experiences, designing itineraries, and telling the stories that connect people to place. 

“If you love being creative… be inventive. Don’t be afraid.” – Kris Hoff, Happy Times Tours 

“It’s purposeful and fun  we’re creating experiences that become lifelong memories.” – Julie Gilbert, Destination Door County 

At its best, tourism blends business strategy with imagination and heart. 

Inclusion, Accessibility, and Responsibility 

A growing number of voices are reframing tourism as a vehicle for inclusion and sustainability ensuring everyone can experience the world. 

“This is the year for improving accessibility… it’s incredibly exciting.” – Kristy Durso, Incredible Memories Travel 

“Sustainability now means giving back to communities and respecting underrepresented groups.” Lisa Simon, International Inbound Travel Association 

The next generation of professionals will shape how the industry honors diversity, preserves culture, and protects the planet. 

Secrets to Success: What the Pros Say 

Beyond how they describe the industry, I asked these leaders what they believe has fueled their own success. Their answers fell into clear patterns: 

• Build relationships rooted in trust. “A client is a friend… if you keep that, you’ll stay successful your entire career.” – Sally Altman, Travel Advocates 
• Stay curious and keep learning. “You have to constantly be evolving … make trying and testing part of the core.” – Mitch Bach, Trip School 
• Lead with empathy. “Most problems can be solved by finding common ground.” – Joe Lannan, Visit French Lick West Baden 
• Adapt to change. “There’s never going to be the same cookiecutter day.” – Jennifer Tremblay Moore, The Wild Center 
• Show passion and positivity. “Take advantage of all the kindness and love … it’s the people. Period.” – Marlene Smith, Traverse City Tourism 
• Maintain integrity. “Transparency matters… that’s how you get ahead.” – Lew Myers, ABA Foundation 

Their collective advice forms a simple truth: success in tourism depends not only on what you know, but how you show up—with enthusiasm, honesty, and heart. 

An Invitation to the Next Generation 

If you’re considering a career in tourism, here’s what these leaders want you to know: 

This is an industry of opportunity, creativity, and connection. It’s full of passionate people working toward a common goal: to make the world a little smaller, kinder, and more welcoming. You’ll work hard, learn constantly, and collaborate daily. But you’ll also laugh often, make lifelong friends, and create experiences that change lives, including your own. 

“Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.” – Karen DiGiacomo, Daytona Beach Area CVB 

Tourism isn’t just where you work. For many, it becomes who you are.