How to Grow Your Tourism Career

Tourism is an industry where passion and perseverance can lead to incredible opportunities. Starting in an entry-level position is just the beginning of a journey that can take you to leadership roles where you can shape the future of tourism. The path to growth may look different for everyone but with the right strategies you can move forward while building a rewarding and impactful career.

Here are 4 tips to help you get started:

Master the Fundamentals Early in Your Career

Entry-level positions provide an essential foundation for your career. Use this time to learn about the tourism industry, what types of organizations comprise the sector and how different tourism organizations measure success. Develop crucial soft skills such as communication, teamwork and adaptability, which are invaluable in tourism.

A successful career in tourism is built on adaptability, curiosity and a commitment to continuous learning. The industry is always evolving and those who seek out new skills, whether in customer experience, technology, or leadership, position themselves for growth. My best advice? Stay open to opportunities, build a strong professional network and never stop learning. The most successful tourism professionals are those who embrace change and bring fresh ideas to the table.
Jennifer Mallare, Human Resources Business Partner, Travel Manitoba

Success in tourism starts with a clear vision. Take the time to define where you want your career to go and set specific, actionable goals to guide you. Align your ambitions with your strengths and pinpoint areas where you’d like to grow. Whether you’re looking to gain expertise in a new aspect of tourism, take on leadership opportunities, or develop specialized skills, having a roadmap will help you stay focused and motivated.

Growth in tourism also comes from continuous learning and adaptability. Be proactive in seeking feedback from peers, mentors, and managers—constructive insights can help you refine your approach and enhance your professional impact. The industry is always evolving, and those who embrace lifelong learning, whether through skill development, networking, or leadership training, position themselves for long-term success.

2. Seek Opportunities for Continuous Learning

The tourism industry is ever-evolving and staying ahead requires commitment to lifelong learning. Take advantage of certifications in hospitality, marketing or management to expand your knowledge. Attend workshops and conferences to gain insights into industry trends and build your professional network. Some professional associations often offer low cost or free attendance to students—reach out to local groups in your field and ask about opportunities for students. Sign up for tourism e-newsletters to stay on top of trends and find out about different learning opportunities. Travel Manitoba’s monthly e-newsletter Travel Currents is a great place to learn about tourism and stay apprised of future opportunities. Additionally, familiarize yourself with new technologies and tools that enhance tourism operations, ensuring you stay competitive and relevant.

Manitoba’s Tourism Education Council offers a wide variety of workshops and online courses tailored toward people working in tourism. Check their online calendar to view all upcoming training opportunities.

Understanding AI isn’t just a competitive advantage in tourism—it’s becoming a necessity. As technology reshapes the industry, those who embrace AI will be better equipped to innovate, streamline operations and enhance visitor experiences, Learning how to leverage AI isn’t about replacing human touch; it’s about gaining the skills to work smarter, adapt to change and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Cody Chomiak, Vice-President of Marketing, Travel Manitoba

3. Build Strong Relationships

Networking is critical at every stage of your career. Focus on building trust and rapport with colleagues and supervisors in your workplace. Engage in industry events such as trade shows, volunteer for tourism boards and attend association events to connect with other professionals. Finding a mentor who can guide you through challenges, share their journey and help you envision your path forward will also help propel your career.

Strong relationships are the foundation of success in any industry, but especially in tourism, where genuine connections with visitors are essential. To me, relationships are built on trust and meaningful engagement over time. They go beyond transactional thinking, befriending someone to get what you want, to fostering an approach where the way we engage with others becomes a blueprint for how we hope they will engage with us.
Louise Waldman, Director of Communications, Travel Manitoba

4. Be Patient and Persistent

Growing your career in tourism is a journey of continuous learning, relationship-building and self-discovery. From mastering entry-level roles to leading teams and shaping strategies, every step is an opportunity to make a difference in the industry. With focus and persistence, you can carve out a fulfilling path in tourism and inspire others to explore, connect and dream