Meet ITC’s wonderful new addition to the Botany Tutorial Team – Anna Addison
Anna in uniform on a plane!
Anna Addison has recently joined our Botany Tutorial Team, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion about the travel and tourism industry.
She’s already making a splash in the classroom, and we can’t wait to see her connect with students and pass on her invaluable knowledge!
Read on to learn more about Anna’s travel industry history and what she’s going to bring to the role.
How did you begin your passion for the tourism industry?
I was drawn to the tourism industry after I left school and completed a course at Auckland University Of Technology. My first full time job was at Newmans Tours Ltd and I loved the diverse and dynamic environment it offered, the culture exposure and helping people create memories. My passion spiralled and I moved into tourism education and on the job training.
What does your travel industry history look like?
I have worked in various sectors of the tourism industry including Newmans Tours, American Express Travel, Air New Zealand, and Menzies Aviation and education.
What was your favourite job you’ve done (aside from your new role at ITC!)?
I have loved all my roles as they were all people person jobs. However the most fun job was working at Air New Zealand in Agency Sales where my role involved taking travel agents on familiarisation trips to Australia and the Pacific.
How will your experience help support students?
My experience in the tourism industry is a tremendous asset in teaching students about the industry. It can support students by providing real world insights, industry connections, problem solving skills and cultural awareness. Ultimately, blending academic knowledge with real-world industry experience helps students gain a more comprehensive, practical understanding of tourism, preparing them for successful careers.
What are you looking forward to the most in your new role?
I love face-to-face training in the classroom and seeing students connecting with each other and enjoying some engaging learning experiences whilst transitioning them into working in the industry.
What do you think are the most important skills to have in the tourism industry?
The tourism industry is one of the most customer-centric sectors globally. With customers expecting seamless, personalized experiences, well-trained staff is essential to deliver consistent quality service. Training in tourism is not a one-time event but a continuous process that ensures staff stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends, technologies, and customer service practices. It helps employees perform their jobs efficiently and enhances their ability to adapt to the changing needs of both the business and the customers.
Tourism businesses, from hotels to travel agencies, often deal with a wide variety of tasks that require diverse skill sets. This makes training even more important, as it ensures that employees can handle the specific challenges of their roles while contributing to the overall success of the organization. For example, tour guides need to be knowledgeable about destinations, local culture, and safety measures. Meanwhile, hotel staff must be trained in hospitality, communication, and crisis management.
What is your best advice for those getting into the industry now?
Moving across different sectors within the tourism industry allows you to be an all-rounder, rather than a functional specialist. Consider small to medium companies, not just large companies, as this often allows you to attain broader experiences and an incredible learning opportunity.
I would also recommend taking on more responsibility as opportunities arise, even if you don’t think you are ready for it.
Enrol with ITC today
Want to learn from industry professionals who have the skills and knowledge from real-world experiences? Like Anna, you’ll find them right here at ITC.
Contact us to learn more about our qualifications and how they could kick-start your career!
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