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

2 minute read
Earning Our 501c3 - How Learn Tourism Reinvests Its Nonprofit Earnings to Advance Education and the Tourism Industry
How Learn Tourism Reinvests Its Earnings to Advance Education and the Tourism Industry
3 minute read
Our Advisors: Driving the Future of Tourism Education, Visitor Experiences, and Sustainability
Gratitude for Our Advisors: Driving the Future of Tourism Education, Visitor Experiences, and...
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Data-Driven Community Alignment: How Destination Marketing Organizations Thrive
Transformative Learning with eLearning Statistics: How Destination Marketing Organizations Thrive
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Empowering the Tourism Industry with Custom Curriculum Development
Empowering the Tourism Industry with Custom Curriculum Development
3 minute read
Better Education = More Visitors
How Destinations Can Attract More Visitors by Providing Better Education to Stakeholders,...
3 minute read
AI for Sustainable and Responsible Tourism: Insights from AI Governance and Ethics
Harnessing AI for Sustainable and Responsible Tourism: Insights from AI Governance and Ethics
4 minute read
How to Make Online Learning Accessible: A Guide for Tourism Course Creators
How to Make Online Learning Accessible: A Guide for Course Creators
2 minute read
Celebrating Leadership in Emerging Tech: Stephen Ekstrom Earns Brown University’s “AI Ethics and Governance” Certificate
Celebrating Leadership in Emerging Tech: Stephen Ekstrom Completes Brown University’s “AI Ethics...
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Targeted Training: Leveraging Learn Tourism's Group Management for Stakeholders and Communities
Targeted Training: Leveraging Learn Tourism's Group Management for Stakeholders and Communities ...
4 minute read
The Evolution of Tourism Ambassador Programs: From Japan’s 1950s Innovation to Today’s Global Impact
The Evolution of Tourism Ambassador Programs: From Japan’s 1950s Innovation to Today’s Global Impact

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.