Celebrating Delta Vacations University’s 25th Year with Learning and Networking
Written by: Michelle on October 05, 2018
For the past 25 years, Delta Vacations University has welcomed travel agents from around the country to join in a two-day conference of learning and laughter. This year, in celebration of their silver anniversary, Delta Vacations truly rolled out the red carpet to welcome agents from across the industry, including 75 of our KHM Travel Group agents, to this educational event.
Prior to the event, KHM Travel Agents attended exclusive sessions on Friday hosted by our Director of Industry Affairs, Bill Coyle. During the first hour, our agents were treated to a panel discussion with Bill, and Terry and Ken of MPG Travel Solutions. Both Terry and Ken were previously executives with MLT Vacations before it merged with Delta Vacations, so they are very familiar with this industry event and its importance for travel agents. Together, they talked about the merger of Apple Vacations and The Mark Travel Corporation into Apple Leisure Group and the impact it may have on agents.
During the second hour, Bill welcomed three of our agents, Connie, Rachel, and Emily to share their experiences and knowledge. They went over price matching, agency fees, and how to handle issues that arise while clients are traveling. Not only did our agents have a chance to share valuable information, but they also were able to get to know one another at a cocktail reception following these panels.
Delta Vacations University officially began the next morning as agents poured into the Minneapolis Convention Center to attend educational sessions. Agents took part in the many educational courses in which representatives of Delta Vacations shared the ins and outs of different destinations. These in-depth sessions delivered firsthand knowledge, like what restaurants to try, what sites and attractions they recommend, and what an agent needs to know about the hotels, resorts, and flights to ensure their clients have a flawless and memorable trip.
Keynote speakers provided inspiration and entertainment during lunch on both days. The first day welcomed Ray Redlich, the Managing Director of Delta Air Lines Operations Management, who gave agents a behind-the-scenes look at how the airline handles issues as they arise to ensure that travel continues as smoothly as possible while keeping passengers and your clients safe.
The second day’s speaker was Mike Rayburn, who blended comedy with his remarkable guitar skills to explore how business owners can innovate and apply their creative efforts to reach new levels of success.
In honor of their 25th Anniversary, agents were invited to celebrate on the event’s second evening. With a stellar reception, a rocking band, and the chance for agents to have fun, Saturday night was a highlight for all in attendance.
Bill noted that this year’s event was an educational and fun-filled!
“It’s truly an educational event, but it’s not just about Delta Vacations. It’s for any agent who wants to learn more about destinations and what it means to be in this business.”
He also noted that he is looking forward to next year’s event, which will be held in Detroit, Michigan. Once again, KHM Travel Group will be hosting exclusive panel sessions for our agents, and we hope to see you there!
Would you like to learn more about the world and help others experience travel? To help our agents learn and grow their travel businesses, KHM Travel Group works closely with our suppliers and to host educational events of our own, like the 2019 Crystal Conference and Awards, To find out more about starting your own travel business, you can fill out the form to the right or give us a call at 1-888-611-1220.