Travel Agent Programs in Overland Park, Kansas
Becoming a Travel Agent in Overland Park, Kansas
Why Become a Travel Agent in Overland Park
Overland Park, Kansas, is a vibrant city known for its thriving business community and rich cultural heritage. As the second-most populous city in Kansas, Overland Park offers a wealth of opportunities for aspiring travel agents. The city is home to notable landmarks such as the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens and the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead. For more information about the city, visit the official Overland Park website.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for travel agents in the United States is approximately $44,690 per year, with a projected job growth of 5% from 2020 to 2030. This makes it an opportune time to consider a career as a travel agent in Overland Park.
Travel Agent Training Programs in Overland Park, Kansas
If you’re looking to become a travel agent in Overland Park, several local schools and organizations offer comprehensive training programs:
- Johnson County Community College (JCCC)
- Location: Overland Park, KS
- Program: JCCC offers a Travel and Tourism Certificate program that covers essential topics such as travel agency operations, destination geography, and customer service. For more details, visit the JCCC Travel and Tourism Certificate page.
- Kansas State University Olathe
- Location: Olathe, KS (approximately 10 miles from Overland Park)
- Program: Kansas State University Olathe provides a Hospitality Management program with courses relevant to travel agents, including travel planning and tourism management. More information can be found on the Kansas State University Olathe Hospitality Management page.
- Metropolitan Community College (MCC)
- Location: Kansas City, MO (approximately 20 miles from Overland Park)
- Program: MCC offers a Travel and Tourism program that prepares students for various roles in the travel industry. Visit the MCC Travel and Tourism program page for more information.
Typical Program Curriculum
Travel agent programs typically include a variety of courses designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the travel industry. Common courses include:
- Travel Agency Operations
- Destination Geography
- Customer Service and Sales
- Travel Technology and Software
- Tourism Management
- Marketing and Promotion
Programs can range from a few months to a year, depending on the level of certification or degree pursued. Some programs may also offer specializations in areas such as corporate travel, leisure travel, or luxury travel.
Travel Agent Employment Opportunities in Overland Park
Overland Park is home to several major travel agencies and tourism-related businesses that offer employment opportunities for travel professionals:
- Travel Leaders
- Location: Overland Park, KS
- Description: Travel Leaders is a well-known travel agency that provides personalized travel planning services. They frequently have openings for travel advisors. Visit their employment opportunities page.
- Global Connections, Inc.
- Location: Overland Park, KS
- Description: Global Connections, Inc. is a travel club and travel agency offering a variety of travel services. They often seek travel consultants to join their team. Check their careers page.
- Cruise Planners
- Location: Overland Park, KS
- Description: Cruise Planners is a franchise-based travel agency specializing in cruise vacations and other travel services. They provide opportunities for independent travel agents. Learn more on their official website.
Travel Agent Certification Options
While certification is not always required to become a travel agent, obtaining certification can enhance your career prospects and credibility. Some popular certification options include:
- Certified Travel Associate (CTA): Offered by The Travel Institute, this certification covers fundamental travel industry knowledge and skills. Visit The Travel Institute for more information.
- Certified Travel Counselor (CTC): Also provided by The Travel Institute, this advanced certification is designed for experienced travel professionals looking to deepen their expertise.
- American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) Certification: ASTA offers various certification programs for travel advisors. Learn more on the ASTA website.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a travel agent in Overland Park, Kansas, is an exciting and rewarding journey. With a variety of local training programs and employment opportunities, now is the perfect time to take the first step. Contact a school or organization today to learn more about their travel agent programs and start your path towards becoming a travel professional. Take action now and turn your passion for travel into a fulfilling career!