Building the Capabilities of the Travel, Tourism and Hospitality Workforce. Conference Paper

This paper was presented at the Australian Federation of Travel Agents Industry Leaders & Educators Engagement Symposium held in Sydney on February 12, 2015. With industry sustainability becoming a strong concern, even within growth sectors, this paper identifies issues to be considered in ensuring that the education and training system can respond to emerging skills demand in the travel, tourism and hospitality industry. There are a number of means by which this can be achieved, the most vital possibly being improving young people's perceptions of the industry's career options. For this industry to be viewed as a career of choice, one that holds diverse and rewarding career pathways, particular attention needs to be paid to the promotion of these aspects. Skill development that pays attention to current and future industry requirements is also essential, including upskilling existing workers and developing the information and communication technology skills the industry needs. Stronger partnerships between training providers, business and industry peak bodies are highlighted as essential catalysts for the realisation of these next steps. Appended is: A statistical profile of the travel, tourism and hospitality industry.