Tourism Management at TRU

Explore Sustainable Tourism Opportunities Curious about how tourism can make a positive impact on our parks and protected areas? Join us for an info session on Friday, Jan 24, from 3-4 PM in the FACT Boardroom, Culinary Arts Building to learn all about TMGT 3980: Selected Topics in Tourism. This August, immerse yourself in the heart of Wells Gray Provincial Park with guided naturalist hikes, fly-fishing sessions, and conversations about Indigenous-led conservation. Discover how this 3-credit course can transform your perspective on sustainable tourism. See you there! 📧 Questions? Reach out to Courtney Mason at cmason@tru.ca

New year, new adventures! Whether you're setting goals, dreaming of travel, or just hoping for fewer 8 AM classes, 2025 is yours to own. 

As the holiday season approaches, we want to wish you all the joy and warmth this time of year brings. Our offices will be closed from the end of the day on December 24th until January 2nd as we take some time to rest, recharge, and celebrate with loved ones. We’ll be back in the new year, ready to help you explore exciting opportunities in 2025! Until then, have a wonderful holiday season and a happy New Year!

Meet Mitchell Schroter, a 2022 graduate of the Bachelor of Tourism Management program. With a focus on Resort Experience, Mitchell always knew his end goal was to find a career path in Whistler, British Columbia, and now he's living that dream as an Assistant Manager at the Four Seasons Resort & Residences Whistler. Working with the residential team, Mitchell helps manage every aspect of their owners’ stays, from pre-arrival to departure, ensuring top-notch service and unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s organizing transportation, booking dining, or planning activities, he curates memorable holidays with a personal touch. His love for the tourism industry started early, working as a ski instructor in high school at just 16. That passion for the mountains led him to TRU and, ultimately to Whistler. Mitchell admits working in hotels can be challenging, but the connections he’s made and the opportunity to share his love for the outdoors with guests make it all worthwhile. When it comes to travel, Mitchell’s favourite destination is Japan. Although he’s only visited in the summer, he’s got his sights set on returning for the winter season to experience Japan’s legendary skiing with friends. His advice for anyone considering a career in Tourism Management? Find something you’re passionate about. There are so many avenues in tourism, so don’t hesitate to try new things—you never know what might spark your interest!

Tourism students at TRU are gaining invaluable real-world experience through innovative programs like Riipen Level UP and Wavemakers! Emma Leach, a Bachelor of Tourism Management student, worked directly with industry professionals, built her research skills, and even contributed to an international presentation. These programs connect students with employers, foster career development, and open doors to future opportunities. Ready to take your career to the next level? Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gUp4ncpS

🎓 Meet Our Alumni: Lisa, Director of Community Development and Engagement at Tourism Kamloops. Lisa’s connection to Thompson Rivers University dates back to 2002, when it was still known as the University College of the Cariboo. Starting in the Events and Conventions Management program, she graduated with a diploma in 2004. After a year of exploring the world, Lisa returned to TRU to pursue a Bachelor of Business Administration, majoring in Marketing, and graduated in 2009. Now, as the Director of Community Development and Engagement at Tourism Kamloops, Lisa leads initiatives that bring people together—industry relations, visitor services, research, corporate communications, and even managing Golf Kamloops. Her work is dynamic, community-focused, and fueled by her passion for building connections. Lisa’s tourism journey began at just 14 in her hometown of Revelstoke, BC, working housekeeping jobs for summer vacation rentals. Her love for winter sports led to roles with Selkirk Tangiers Heli Skiing, and later she built marketing experience in the golf industry at courses like Mara Hills and Talking Rock. After transitioning to the Kamloops Chamber of Commerce, Lisa found her true calling at Tourism Kamloops, where she’s been thriving for the past eight years. When she’s not working, Lisa’s heart is set on adventure. From exploring Australia, China, Thailand, and Mexico to family road trips across BC, Alberta, and the Pacific Northwest, she cherishes every opportunity to create lasting memories. Next on her bucket list? Eastern Canada, Europe, and a magical trip to Disneyland with her two young boys. Lisa’s advice for future tourism professionals: “It’s not just about what you learn in the classroom. Your lived experiences, work background, and connections will set you apart. Volunteer, try new roles, and step outside your comfort zone—this industry thrives on diverse perspectives and a curious spirit.” From leading industry events to turning a nine-hour layover in Beijing into an unforgettable visit to the Great Wall of China, Lisa is proof that embracing opportunities can lead to extraordinary experiences. 

The (Travel and Tourism Research Association (TTRA) conference is coming to Kamloops in 2025, and students from Thompson Rivers University are already playing a major role in its preparation. Recently, students from the EVNT2100 class showcased their creativity and talent by presenting their ideas for the upcoming event. Their presentations brought forward innovative concepts to help make the 2025 TTRA Conference a unique and impactful experience for attendees. These students aren't just learning in the classroom—they are actively contributing to the planning and vision of a global tourism conference. Their involvement offers valuable hands-on experience, preparing them for future careers in the tourism and event industry. We're proud of their enthusiasm and the exciting ideas they’ve put forward, highlighting the fresh perspective that TRU students bring to the world of tourism research and event planning.

Monday’s Pitch Day for the TRU Tourism Innovation Lab was buzzing with creativity! Students from TMGT 4010 brought their A-game, pitching innovative business ideas to a panel of industry pros from Tourism Kamloops and Kamloops Innovation. Not only do the students get expert coaching, but select students also receive funding to bring their visions to life over the summer. We can’t wait to see these ideas take flight!

Events and Conventions Management Diploma // Step into an exciting career where you’ll plan, organize, and promote unforgettable experiences—from festivals and concerts to trade shows, weddings, and conventions. Our program covers every aspect of event management, from creative design to strategic planning and technical logistics—equipping you with the skills to execute any event, anywhere. With event management booming as one of Canada’s fastest-growing tourism sectors, our graduates land roles with industry leaders like sporting events and competitions, Shambhala Music Festival, Live Nation Concerts, Vancouver Convention Centre, and Sun Peaks Resort.

Meet Gary, the General Manager of the DoubleTree Hotel in Kamloops and a proud TRU Tourism Management graduate from the class of 2015. Gary’s journey into the hospitality industry began in China, where he grew up. His first job was as a bellboy at the Shangri-La, giving him a front-row seat to the world of hotels and hospitality. Combined with his parents' frequent travels, these early experiences sparked his passion for the industry and set him on his career path. After learning about TRU’s 2+2 program, which allowed him to spend two years studying in China before completing the final two years at TRU, Gary knew it was the perfect opportunity to earn his degree in Tourism Management, Resort & Hospitality. Since graduating, Gary has had numerous opportunities in the hospitality industry, including working at various hotels, such as the Holiday Inn & Suites. Throughout his career, he's grown deeply connected to the Kamloops community and is committed to keeping its spirit vibrant and strong. As General Manager of the DoubleTree Hotel, Gary oversees all aspects of the business, ensuring that every guest’s experience is seamless from check-in to check-out. Beyond his hotel responsibilities, he is a dedicated community member, serving on boards like Tourism Kamloops and the Hotel Association, among others. When asked for advice for future students considering a career in tourism, Gary emphasizes the importance of passion. "Be passionate about what you do and love every minute of it. Work smarter, not harder, and always have a personal hobby to help you manage the stresses of everyday life." For Gary, those hobbies are golf and basketball. Through golf, he built meaningful connections with mentors who helped guide him in his career, reinforcing his belief in the power of community and making a difference, no matter how small. DoubleTree by Hilton