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

6 minute read
Top 10 Training Programs Every State and National Tourism Board Should Offer Stakeholders
Tourism boards expend enormous energy to inspire travelers to visit. The bigger opportunity may...
6 minute read
Why Multilingual Tourism Training Is No Longer Optional
If your destination markets internationally, why would you educate the people selling it in only...
6 minute read
Sustainable Tourism Requires Sustainable Training
Why One-Off Workshops Aren’t Enough Sustainable tourism is usually discussed in terms of...
3 minute read
Why Destinations Are Training the Travel Trade Directly — And How to Reach 40,000 Travel Professionals While You Do It
Travel Agent Training for Destinations: How to Reach the Travel Trade | Learn Tourism
2 minute read
Before You Build a Tourism Ambassador Program, Answer These Five Questions
Communities across North America are embracing tourism ambassador programs to strengthen local...
2 minute read
Tourism Deserves a Seat at the Table with Jill Delaney
Leadership lessons from Discover Albany CEO Jill Delaney
6 minute read
Residents First: Tourism for Livability
The Festival Residents Used to Plan Their Year Around Ask around at just about any destination...
5 minute read
Eleven Years of Learning Before, During, and After the Launch
This year, Learn Tourism turns six.
3 minute read
Livability as the North Star: Why Educated Residents Are a Destination's Greatest Asset
What if the most important tourism metric isn't arrivals?
2 minute read
Embracing the Heart of Tourism: A Conversation with Marie Lacouture
In the ever-changing landscape of tourism, the human connection remains a cornerstone of memorable...

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.