Mobile tourism training program lets students earn and learn on the go

Collaboration between the Government of Alberta, Olds College and the Alberta Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), has led to the development of a new mobile tourism and hospitality training program that will be available this fall.

Government and the AHLA each contributed $500,000 to develop the training videos, which will be easily accessible to students with a smart phone or tablet. The training videos can be viewed from anywhere at any time, which will help front-line tourism workers to further their education while working.

“Our future prosperity depends on creating jobs and diversifying the economy. Supporting mobile training is an important investment in new technology that will enhance student learning and ongoing professional development for our tourism workforce.”
Ricardo Miranda, Minister of Culture and Tourism

“Olds College is building on its expertise in mobile learning by putting training directly into students’ hands. Thanks to this mobile learning initiative, employees will be able to access more consistent training and will be able to complete their studies without relocating or disrupting their personal or professional lives.”
Dr. H.J. (Tom) Thompson, President of Olds College

“This program will bring hospitality education to those who are new to the industry and to those who are already working in it. It will develop their skills, help them build satisfying careers, and create prosperity that will benefit all Albertans.”
Dave Kaiser, President and CEO, Alberta Hotel & Lodging Association

It is anticipated that Alberta’s tourism industry will generate more than $10 billion in revenue annually by 2020.

Targeted at frontline staff, the first training modules will be available in the fall of 2016. Trainees have the opportunity to use these new training tools as part of Olds’ three hospitality related programs: Accommodation Guest Services Certificate; Accommodation Management Certificate; and Tourism Business and Services Management.

In addition, they will be available as individual training modules for use by AHLA members across the province.

Related information

Media inquiries

Bill Strickland
780-554-2014
Communications, Culture and Tourism

Dean Turnquist
403-559-6528
Manager, Corporate Communications, Olds College

Dave Kaiser
780-436-6112
President and CEO, Alberta Hotel & Lodging Association

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