The Travel Institute’s latest initiatives support both industry newcomers and seasoned professionals: Their TRIPKITSM Scholarship Fund, available throughout Q1 2025, offers $150 tuition assistance for the introductory program. This 30 percent discount on program costs is open to inexperienced travel advisors and those new to the industry.
“Bringing new talent—not simply new people—into the travel profession is incredibly important to our mission, which is the industry’s collective success,” said Diane Petras, CTIE, president of The Travel Institute, in a press statement. “As an independent organization, The Travel Institute is uniquely positioned to provide the broad and unbiased foundation of critical industry and business knowledge that newcomers need,” Petras asserted, adding that the course also helps new advisors weigh important decisions about employee vs. independent contractor roles, host agency considerations, and potential specialization to help start their career on solid footing. We’re coming off an amazing 2024 and we’re not letting up in 2025.”
The Travel Institute Looks to the Future
The Travel Institute has seen remarkable growth, with enrollments up by an average of 51 percent over the past two years. In 2024 alone, more than 600 professionals achieved certification through their programs, highlighting the industry’s need for well-educated advisors at all levels.
Looking ahead to 2025, The Travel Institute is updating its TRIPKIT curriculum and its 3-tier certification program. It is also focusing on several key priorities. First, it is offering an extensive schedule of PEP Talks, live online lectures by industry experts. These talks provide valuable insights and count towards continuing education units (CEUs) for certified graduates.
Additionally, the Institute is enhancing its Premium Access online library, improving search functionality and access to over 400 hours of expert content. They’re also increasing consumer outreach to emphasize the value of educated travel professionals.
Applications for the TRIPKITSM Scholarship Fund are now open. New advisors can attend a free webinar to learn more about entering the industry. The Travel Institute’s event calendar lists upcoming PEP Talks and webinars on various topics, including new advisor learning and certification.
For more information, visit thetravelinstitute.com.