VisitGreenvilleSC CTA Program 


Get involved in Greenville, South Carolina's Certified Tourism Ambassador™ Program, a comprehensive certification program designed to educate residents and empower the local hospitality industry. By becoming a Certified Tourism Ambassador™ (CTA), you'll enhance your knowledge of our vibrant area, forge valuable connections with industry colleagues, play a vital role in fostering the growth of Greenville's tourism and hospitality sector, and understand the economic impact of tourism on our region. 
 

Why Become a Certified Tourism Ambassador?

By becoming a Certified Tourism Ambassador™ you’ll have the tools and knowledge necessary to create a more memorable and positive visitor experience, of which you’ll reap the benefits. Be in the know on local developments and behind-the-scenes opportunities, get invited to CTA exclusive events, and get local perks along the way! Being a CTA is a great achievement and an official designation to add to your resume. 


Who  Should Enroll? 

Certification enrollment is open to anyone who is directly or indirectly involved in the tourism industry or in serving locals and visitors (leisure travelers, business travelers, spectators, attendees).
 

Advantages of Becoming a CTA


*Provides a Meaningful Credential 

*Builds Valuable Skills 

*Career Advancement 

*Networking Opportunities 

*Receive Industry Information & Updates 

*Rewards & Incentives 
 


How Does the Program Work? 

To earn the CTA designation, all participants must: 

  • Complete required reading (approx. 200 pages)

  • Attend a half-day classroom session 
    Four instructional modules include:
         1) The Power of Tourism 
         2) Discovering Greenville, SC
         3) Knowing, Finding & Using Resources
         4) Exceeding Customer Expectations

  • Complete learning assignments + exercises

  • Complete an open-book examination 





CTA Program Logo

Upon successful completion of the program, participants will earn the Certified Tourism Ambassador™ designation (whereby, you may use the CTA initials behind your name, e.g. Jane Doe, CTA), along with a certificate of completion and lapel pin. 

An annual renewal process that includes continuing education and staying abreast of local attractions and information is also necessary to maintain your certification. 


How Much Does the Program Cost? 

There is a one-time nonrefundable enrollment fee of $25 per person. The annual certification renewal fee is regularly $20, or $10 with an early-bird discount. Looking to get your entire organization certified? Group discounts are available! 

A visual of the CTA Program brochure to get people to view or download it.

View the CTA Program Brochure


What  Impact Does This Program Have? 

Each year, Greenville welcomes seven million visitors who spend over $1.5 billion in our local community. These visitors’ experiences in Greenville County and the interactions they have with locals leave a lasting impact. The more residents trained through this program, the better the overall visitor experience becomes. Greenville visitors often say that the people they interacted with made their time here memorable and special. It makes them want to come back and tell their friends to visit, too. This all leads to more dollars spent in Greenville at local businesses and restaurants. Help be a part of keeping our tourism economy thriving!
 

Upcoming Classes


*Classes are hosted from 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM and will be held at the VGSC Offices unless otherwise indicated*

Tuesday, August 27, 2024
Wednesday, September 25, 2024
Tuesday, October 22, 2024
Thursday, November 14, 2024
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Our 2025 class schedule will be posted soon

*Before attending, registration is required*


Still have questions? Reach out for more information