The Travel Institute offers tuition assistance for TRIPKIT new agent training

The Travel Institute is offering US$100 in tuition assistance for its TRIPKITSM training program during the organization’s annual “TRIP of a Lifetime” fall drive. 

The offer, available through October, is aimed at encouraging new agents to build foundational industry knowledge through formal education.

“Starting a career in travel is rewarding but it can also be overwhelming,” said Guida Botelho, CTIE, senior director of education for The Travel Institute. 

“With so much to know in our complex, ever-evolving industry and with so many training options available, TRIPKIT remains the go-to, trusted source for industry newcomers wanting to become truly job ready,” Botelho continued.

The self-paced TRIPKIT program includes online curriculum, on-demand coaching, recurring quizzes and expert-led insights from industry professionals. 

Participants complete the industry-recognized TAP Test to assess job readiness.

As an independent non-profit organization, The Travel Institute provides education and certification programs for travel professionals at all career stages. 

Its 2023 Changing Face of Travel Agents survey reported that 36 per cent of agencies lost experienced staff during the pandemic, while 66 per cent of advisors were planning to retire soon. 

In a 2024 TravelSavers survey, 69 per cent of agencies planned to hire, but only 7 per cent said finding qualified candidates would be easy.

A 2023 Magellan Gold Award winner, TRIPKIT is used by individual learners, agency owners and post-secondary institutions. 

Enrollments have increased 51 per cent over the past two years as the industry works to attract and train new talent.

“TRIPKIT gives new advisors not only the practical knowledge to succeed but also the confidence to serve clients with integrity and care,” said Scott Wismont, CTIE, founder of Rainbow Getaways Travel Network. 

“New advisors who complete TRIPKIT come to our travel trade better prepared and also reach success faster because they already have a solid understanding of the industry.”

Recent graduates, including Melanie Kautzman of Destinations by Melanie, LLC, and Jason Watson of Which Way Travel, LLC, described the course as a valuable foundation for launching their travel careers. 

Both are now pursuing Certified Travel Associate (CTA) credentials through The Travel Institute’s career path program.

TRIPKIT tuition assistance is available through October for new or inexperienced travel professionals. 

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