The Travel Institute Releases New Logo for Travel Agent Proficiency Test Graduates
by Briana Bonfiglio /The Travel Institute has released a new logo for its Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) test, which graduates can use to show colleagues and clients that they have completed the exam.
A passing score on the Travel Institute’s TAP test indicates that a travel advisor has proficient knowledge of travel industry basics, as well as foundational skills to carry out the job. Having this logo as a badge on their website, social media, email signature, or business card can help agents display this credential to potential employers or future clients.
“We continue to answer the industry’s call for job-ready talent to support suppliers, agencies, and travelers,” said Travel Institute President Diane Petras. “This new logo underscores our TAP graduates’ accomplishments and supports them in showcasing the skills they have worked hard to earn.”
According to the Travel Institute, the TAP test “assesses a new agent’s mastery of industry basics and is often the first step in travel professional recognition.” The test’s new logo is not only helpful for advisors, but also for travel industry employers looking for qualified candidates.
“TAP graduates specifically are pre-vetted, saving owners significant time in the hiring process and allowing them to focus on training for their own proprietary processes and procedures,” said Guida Botelho, senior director of education for The Travel Institute.
The Travel Institute first launched TAP in 1997 and it has since become a useful travel industry tool. Steven Phillips, senior director of education and training at TravelSavers, a consortia that uses TAP, noted that the exam is thorough and proctored, making it more reliable than others.
“With so much to learn in travel, TAP confirms our new agents truly understand the ins and outs of how the travel industry functions starting out,” Phillips said. “The fact that our graduates are successfully selling travel is further proof of TAP’s value as we rebuild the industry’s foundation of skilled agents.”
The TAP test is available to travel agents who are enrolled in the Travel Institute’s introductory training program called Trip Kit, as well as those who are utilizing in-house host agency resources or in certain post-secondary education programs.
“We partner with The Travel Institute to create entry-level corporate travel consultants, including utilizing the TAP test,” said Patty Kaupinis, director of talent acquisition and education for World Travel Inc. “We recognize the reputation of The Travel Institute; together, we are educating and molding the next generation of travel industry professionals.”
“Our singular mission is to advance travel professionals through quality education and there are no shortcuts,” Botelho added. “We are focused on filling the industry gap with committed new agents equipped for the long-term.”
