Tourism Essentials is the first step toward an exciting career in tourism!  The National emerit Certification is awarded to candidates who can demonstrate the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to succeed in the tourism sector.

What are the benefits of Tourism Essentials certification?

Tourism Essentials are the essential employability skills for workers in tourism. They are skills, attitudes, and behaviours that employers expect.  Workers who have these skills are able to adjust to new and ever-changing workplace conditions, and strive to gain further knowledge and skills.

Candidates who complete the program and pass the Tourism Essentials exam are awarded the National emerit Tourism Essentials Certificate.

How was the Tourism Essentials program developed?

The Tourism Essentials National Occupational Standards were developed with input from experts from all industries of the tourism sector.  These experts were asked what foundation abilities individuals need for work in the tourism sector.  Their ideas were organized into three main categories – attitudes, skills, and tourism knowledge – and combined with research about essential skills in the workplace. 

Delivery Options

Online
Enhance your learning experience with emerit Tourism Essentials online training. This option is perfect for those who want a self-directed, flexible training solution. The easy-to-use modules include: interactive activities, video scenarios, animated diagrams, and valuable downloads, including templates, checklists and more!  Participants work independently through online program modules and contact OTEC to schedule an exam.

Workbook
This self-study guide provides everything you need to succeed as a tourism professional! By developing an abundance of transferable skills, you’ll gain the competitive edge necessary to thrive in any tourism environment. Participants will study their Tourism Essentials workbook independently and contact OTEC to schedule an exam.

Formal Training
Participants may take part in formal training through a range of education and community service programs across Ontario. With the emerit Tourism Essentials Trainer’s Guide, you can deliver effective, current, in-house training, a perfect resource for giving employees the building blocks they need to develop the skills and knowledge required to be successful in any tourism career.

Program Content

Attitudes

1. Demonstrate a Positive Attitude
2. Demonstrate Responsibility
3. Demonstrate Adaptability
4. Demonstrate Willingness to Continuously Learn
5. Value Safety

Skills

1. Demonstrate Communication Skills
2. Demonstrate Numeracy Skills
3. Demonstrate Computer and Other Technology Skills
4. Manage Information
5. Demonstrate Thinking Skills
6. Demonstrate Ability to Work with Others
7. Demonstrate Job Search Skills

Tourism Knowledge

1. Demonstrate Knowledge of Tourism Sector
2. Promote the Tourism Sector and Your Company
3. Provide Professional Service

Where can I find Tourism Essentials training?

To learn more about the Tourism Essentials certificate, please contact OTEC’s Director, Project Development, Adam Morrison at amorrison@otec.org or call 416-622-1975 ext. 236 today.