Become a Certified Tourism Ambassador!
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).
Want to learn more about the CTA Program?
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 a required reading assignment
(approx. 200 pages, including exercises)
-
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 -
Pass an open-book certification exam
Upon successful completion of the program, participants will earn the Certified Tourism Ambassador™ designation (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 is necessary to maintain your certification.
How Much Does the Program Cost?
There is a one-time non-refundable enrollment fee of $25 per person. The annual certification renewal fee is regularly $20, or $10 with an early-bird discount. Group discounts are available.
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!
Still have questions? Reach out for more information.
Read the Program's Feature in Upstate Business Journal
"Locals can make a lasting impression on those visiting."
Upcoming Classes
*Classes are hosted from 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM and will be held at the VGSC Offices unless otherwise indicated*
Wednesday, February 19, 2025
Thursday, March 27, 2025
Tuesday, April 29, 2025
Wednesday, May 14, 2025
*Before attending, registration is required*