Nexion Travel Group Celebrates 300th Scholarship for Veterans and Military Spouses in Travel Industry
As Americans prepare to honor Veterans Day on November 11th, Nexion Travel Group is celebrating a significant milestone in its commitment to supporting veterans and military spouses seeking careers in the travel industry. The leading host agency for independent travel professionals has proudly awarded its 300th scholarship through its Veterans in Travel program.
The Veterans in Travel program provides veterans and active-duty military spouses with the opportunity to develop the skills necessary to become professional travel advisors. Participants receive a 50% scholarship to the esteemed Travel Leaders of Tomorrow advisor training program, a comprehensive virtual campus featuring a robust curriculum, collaborative study groups, expert-led lectures, and guidance in creating a business plan.
This initiative, which awarded 24 scholarships in 2021, is on track to award 35 to 40 scholarships this year. “Veterans and military spouses have sacrificed so much for our country, and we are proud to help them take the next step so that they can be successful in their civilian careers,” said Heather Kindred, CTIE, VTA, Program Director of Travel Leaders of Tomorrow.
Upon completing the program, Veterans in Travel graduates can join Nexion Travel Group without paying an activation fee. They can also choose to participate in group coaching or receive mentorship from fellow veterans. This support system helps them navigate the transition into the travel industry and establish successful careers.
John and Jackie Matthews, owners of Adventure Awaits World Travel in Colleyville, Texas, are shining examples of the program’s success. As graduates of the Veterans in Travel program and members of Nexion’s Circle of Excellence, they’ve achieved significant sales milestones using Nexion’s preferred suppliers, including land, air, and cruise packages.
John Matthews, following in his father’s footsteps, served in the Navy and later retired after a career in the transportation industry, including a stint at Boeing. With extensive travel experience, having lived in 14 states, visited all 50 states and travelled to 70 countries, he has a deep understanding of both the joys and challenges of travel. Jackie, who began traveling internationally as a child and has visited over 45 countries, firmly believes that travel has a profound impact, stating, “Travel changes us in beautiful ways as we learn to value and respect one another and find those things we share in common.”
“I’m thrilled that we’ve been able to help veterans and military spouses like John and Jackie Matthews become successful as they serve their clients and enrich our industry,” said Jackie Friedman, CTC, VTA, President, Nexion Travel Group. “Veterans are skilled in leadership, teamwork, attention to detail, resilience and problem-solving, all attributes that are important to a travel advisor. And, of course, their spouses also have valuable skills gained from navigating the challenges of military life.”
In a recent survey, travel advisors with Nexion Travel Group reported high levels of job satisfaction and optimism about the future of the travel industry. Eighty-eight percent of respondents said they would recommend a career as a travel advisor, while 83 percent expressed confidence in the industry’s outlook. This strong sentiment underscores the positive impact that Nexion Travel Group is having on the travel industry by fostering a supportive environment for veterans and military spouses seeking fulfilling careers.