Stephen Ekstrom

Stephen Ekstrom is the embodiment of a passionate lifelong learner and a seasoned professional in the tourism industry, serving as the CEO and founder of Learn Tourism | learntourism.org. With over 25 years of experience, he has cultivated a deep understanding of tourism development and education, driven by his commitment to advancing the industry and fostering sustainable economies. Stephen's insatiable curiosity and love of knowledge have made him a proud nerd, constantly seeking to expand his expertise and share his insights with others. Alongside his faithful furry companions, Rudy and Marjorie, he embraces the digital nomad lifestyle, traversing the globe and immersing himself in diverse cultures. A dedicated advocate for continuous improvement, Stephen is a professional member of the Association for Talent Development and a member of Skal International. Stephen holds prestigious certifications in Inclusive and Ethical Leadership from USF, AI Governance and Ethics from Brown University, Sustainable Business Strategy and Transforming Customer Experiences from Harvard Business School, and Sustainable Tourism Destination Management from Cornell.

Education that Takes you places

3 minute read
Online or In-Person? Which Tourism Training Is Best for Your Audience
Online or In-Person? Which Training Is Best for Your Audience
3 minute read
Capacity Building For Stronger Tourism Destinations With TEA
Building Stronger Tourism Destinations with TEA: Transformative, Engaging, and Accessible® Training
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How Hospitality Leaders Can Future-Proof Their Workforce Through Education
The hospitality industry is evolving rapidly, with shifting traveler expectations, emerging...
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Workforce Development and Capacity Building for Destination Marketing Organizations: 5 Tips for Success
Workforce Development and Capacity Building for Destination Marketing Organizations: 5 Tips for...
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Why Tourism Associations, Destination Marketing Organizations, and Experience Providers Should Certify Their Training Programs with Learn Tourism
Why Tourism Associations, Destination Marketing Organizations, and Experience Providers Should...
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What 50 Leading Destinations Know About Engaging Stakeholders That You May Not
Destination CEOs are constantly seeking strategies to outpace competitors and foster stronger...
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Your Course Enrollment Fuels Global Change
Empowering Communities Through Education: How Your Course Registrations Fuel Global Change
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Nepal’s Khaptad Badimalika Regions: A Bold Step Towards Sustainable Tourism
Empowering Nepal’s Khaptad Badimalika Regions: A Bold Step Towards Sustainable Tourism
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Empowering Destinations Through Customized Tourism Ambassador Programs
Empowering Destinations Through Customized Tourism Ambassador Programs {% video_player...
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Why Should Your Destination Offer a Tourism Ambassador Certification?
Why Should Your Destination Offer a Tourism Ambassador Certification? Tourism ambassador...

Where Will Knowledge Take You?

Curiosity and a passion for lifelong learning fuel both the traveler and those who make experiences worth having. Join us.