Industry Events Spark Career Vision for Students

Attending Destinations International’s Annual Convention for the first time in Tampa, Florida earlier this summer was both exciting and, to be honest, a bit intimidating. As a student stepping into a room filled with industry leaders and professionals, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe, and nerves. These were individuals who had already solidified their careers, shaping the future of destinations and tourism, while I was just beginning to imagine where my path might lead.

Despite the initial butterflies, the more I interacted with these professionals, the more I realized they weren’t just leaders in the industry - they were also mentors and advocates for the next generation. They were eager to share insights, listen to fresh perspectives, and offer advice. Days after the convention ended, I found myself reflecting on those conversations, replaying sessions in my mind, and seeing my future more clearly than ever.

As the days passed, I felt a bittersweet sense of closure because while the convention was over, I had a newfound excitement for what was to come. I kept thinking about my potential career, revisiting the ideas and discussions I’d experienced. These interactions shifted my mindset - I no longer felt like just a student. Watching the next class of 30 under 30, I could imagine myself on that stage one day, contributing to the industry. This realization boosted my confidence and solidified my commitment to pursuing a meaningful role in tourism.

Experience Enables Students to Shape and Commit to the Industry's Future

My experience at the Annual Convention was just one chapter in my broader journey with Destinations International. As a Professional Development intern, I’ve been involved in developing certificate programs, attending meetings with industry leaders, and contributing to event planning and content creation. These hands-on experiences have connected my course work to the real world, making my learning more authentic and relevant.

As I partake in this work, I am gaining confidence, not just in my current role, but also in how my skills align with the future of the industry. As more students like me combine work with academic study, we begin to understand how our contributions can drive industry trends, innovations, and solutions. This balanced approach of connecting practical experience with academics produces well-rounded professionals who are ready to enter the field and also to shape its future.

The travel and tourism industry thrives on adaptability and fresh ideas. Engaging students early ensures the next generation is prepared to embrace changes and push the industry forward. Internships and immersive learning are essential in developing professionals who are confident in their ability to lead in a rapidly evolving industry.

A Student’s Insights on Building the Next-Generation Workforce

From my perspective, building the future workforce is more than just filling roles - it’s about creating opportunities that allow students to fully involve themselves in the industry. DMOs and other industry leaders should focus on establishing personal connections through internships, shadowing, and professional development programs. These experiences create a sense of belonging and purpose, showing students how our work is actually valued. Workforce development isn’t just a marketing campaign - it’s about creating genuine, lasting relationships that inspire growth and passion.

Mentorship is a crucial element in building a successful workforce. Passing on knowledge is important, but sharing enthusiasm for the industry is just as impactful. When mentors invest in students, they don’t just develop our skills - they also create a sense of pride and purpose in our work. Simple engagements, like inviting students to industry events or allowing them to shadow professionals, can make a significant impact. These moments of inclusion provide insight into the industry and help us build connections with professionals who can guide and inspire us.

All in all, creating an environment where students feel valued and invested in is key to shaping the workforce of the future. Both students and industry professionals must be committed to this process. When students feel respected as contributors, we become more confident and motivated to shape our paths within the industry. The more engaged we are, the more we envision ourselves as future leaders, driving the travel and tourism landscape for years to come.

As we work toward building the next generation of tourism professionals, I encourage destination leaders to consider how they can actively support their growth. One impactful way is by sponsoring local students to take part in Destinations International’s upcoming Business Intelligence Certificate program. With courses in Sales, Services, and Marketing and Communications, this program will provide emerging professionals with key skills in business events, such as decision-making, risk mitigation, and strategic planning. By investing in future leaders now with opportunities in professional development, such as the Business Intelligence Certificate, you’re ensuring they have the necessary tools to contribute to this growing and thriving industry.