ITC Celebrates 30 Years: Memory Lane with our Industry Partners
Roy’s most recent visit to ITC!
ITC is celebrating 30 years of being one of the most trusted providers of tourism and aviation education in New Zealand.
As part of our celebrations, we reached out to old graduates, tutors, industry partners, and others who have been part of our story… then we watched the memories roll in!
Two of the first to respond were Andrea Cameron and Roy Quispe. Both were industry partners, with Roy working with us through Disney International Programs.
“I’ve had the pleasure of meeting and recruiting many incredible ITC students and graduates over the years, helping them take their talents from New Zealand all the way to Walt Disney World!” said Roy.
Walk down memory lane with us as we share more about these two fantastic humans!
How did it all begin?
For Andrea, it was about 10 years ago, teaching tourism and attending CATE conferences.
For Roy, it was more recently in 2023. That was when he started supporting recruitment efforts in Aotearoa for Disney International Programs.
“From the very beginning, it was clear that ITC was more than just an educational institution. The team was deeply committed to student success and creating meaningful industry connections,” he shared.
What is one of your favourite or most memorable ITC experiences?
Roy reminisced about seeing students go from nervous about the chance to work internationally with Disney, to becoming confident Cast Members representing New Zealand at Walt Disney World.
“There is something incredibly rewarding about meeting a student during the recruitment process and then watching them thrive, build lifelong friendships, develop professionally, and return home with a newfound sense of confidence. Those full-circle moments never get old and are what make our partnership so special.”
For Andrea, it was all about the memories of getting dressed up at conferences, taking photos, and “creating bespoke experiences for our tourism students.”
Andrea and the ITC team.
How has ITC made a difference to your work?
In Andrea’s work, she says it helped to build her confidence in teaching tourism. Plus, she says that it created pathways for students, and that ITC has “just always been there at the end of the phone or email when needed.”
For Roy, ITC has been an “invaluable partner” in his work connecting students with life-changing international opportunities.
“The students arrive professional, and eager to learn, which speaks volumes about the support and education they receive.”
Is there a particular ITC person who has made a difference to you?
Andrea thanked Esther, Ceri, Mel, and Laura.
Roy mentioned both Sarndra and Laura, who both played a big role in his work with ITC.
“I truly could not have done the work we’ve accomplished together without their partnership and support,” he said.
He went on to highlight their passion for student success, as well as their enthusiasm for the Disney Programs.
“They genuinely care about helping students achieve their goals, and it has been amazing to work alongside them and celebrate so many student success stories together.”
What do you think makes ITC special?
At ITC, we know that travel and tourism education is all about the people. Which is why we’re so proud that both Andrea and Roy said that it was the people who make ITC stand out.
“ITC has built a community that genuinely cares about student success. Whether you’re a student, graduate, educator, or industry partner, you immediately feel welcomed and supported. That’s something truly special,” said Roy.
Want to be part of the next 30 years of the ITC story? Contact us here to learn more!
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