WELLESLEY, Mass. -- The Institute of Certified Travel Agents
graduated its first AAA travel agent from certified travel
associate professional certification program.
The agent, Venus Devoe-Foley, of AAA Travel Agency in Flint,
Mich., took just over four months to complete the CTA training
program to earn the designation. Agents have one year to complete
the program. By earning her CTA, Devoe-Foley has completed 40% of
her certified travel counselor requirement. She said she plans on
continuing on to gain her CTC designation.
"Everyone in the industry acknowledges the CTC designation as an
important achievement," said Devoe-Foley, whose been with the
agency for about a year and a half. "The CTA designation gives
agents industry recognition in the beginning of their careers."
And future joint marketing programs will promote the
professionalism of both CTCs and CTAs to AAA 40 million members in
the U.S. and Canada, according to Bob Lepisto, president of ICTA.
"AAA agents will have a combination of industry skills and
knowledge that will enhance the quality of service they offer their
members and customers," Lepisto said.
The educational format combines a series of required core
courses and electives which candidates can customize to fit
specific needs or interest, Lepisto said.
CTA course study includes communications & technology,
geography, sales and service and travel industry issues.