BlaineTurner Advertising (BTA) understands the importance of tourism and hospitality as a vital component in West Virginia’s future. Sarah Rogers, MBA, BTA President and CEO, recently attended this year’s Mountaineer Country Tourism Summit to inform the region’s tourism professionals on how to execute strategic social media efforts. This experience aligns directly with the ongoing partnership between the BTA team and Visit Mountaineer Country, promoting West Virginia tourism.
Some of our team members recently completed the West Virginia Tourism Works Training Program to build practical knowledge and skills in local marketing communications. BTA recognizes that training our staff to support a more prosperous West Virginia through tourism is essential.
The West Virginia Tourism Works Online Training Program is a free course that teaches users the essential skills for careers in tourism and hospitality. This course was developed in partnership between the West Virginia Department of Tourism and Blue Ridge Community and Technical College. After completing 12 microcredentials, a user will become a Certified Destination Specialist and can earn one hour of college credit, as well as receive local merchandise.
This training highlights all regions of the state, small businesses, and the authentic culture of West Virginia!
What Will You Learn?
Participants complete 12 micro-credential courses, each focusing on an instrumental area of tourism service:
- Empathy Driven Service
- Greeting Guests
- Regional Ambassador
- Communication Skills
- Innovation In Event Planning
- Planning Pillars
- Service Fundamentals
- Strategic Planning
- Managing Change
- Problem Solving
- Organizational Standards
- Experience Economy
Who Can Take the Training?
Tourism Works is for every West Virginian. Whether you currently work in tourism or you’re interested in learning more about engaging with visitors, this resource is open to anyone wanting to enrich their skills in providing a welcoming experience in our great state. Individuals from all 55 counties are eligible to take this course, including middle and high school students.
College students can earn one hour of transferable credit for the course and enhance their knowledge before entering the workforce. For those already in the tourism industry, this can enrich their understanding of how to excel in their careers, teach their employees essential skills, or even help them run their small businesses.
How Does This Benefit Local Organizations?
Local organizations will benefit from the tourism training by ensuring that their employees are equipped with the professional, social, and critical thinking skills they need to succeed in their field.
- Promoting community outreach and developing partnerships
- Career opportunities through enhancing employee skill sets
- Fostering long-lasting relationships and professional expansion
- Improved guest experience
- Strategic planning and communication efforts
- Implementing an educated workforce to drive economic growth
Why is it Important?
The economic, communication, organizational, and innovative resources from this training are endless. Whether you are a local bakery owner or a whitewater rafting instructor, anyone can benefit from the free Tourism Works Online Training Program.
Ready to Get Started?
Enroll in the free training today: https://wvtourism.com/tourismworks/free-trainings/