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 What's New With the Graduates of the International Guide
Academy, Inc. David Happe announces: "I have landed my first gig! It's a five-month Tour Guide/Team Member position with Klondike Gold Fields in Skagway, AK. Training for the summer season begins on April 20, and the season ends on September 30. I will be leading passengers from cruise ships on gold dredge and train tours, along with demonstrations on how to pan for gold. I will also assist customers in the local gift shop. What's even cooler is I get to dress in period costume and create my own character straight out of the Klondike Gold Rush!" Kaz Purre, reports that "I just completed my 5th year as a Tour Manager (can you believe it has been that long?!) I graduated in November 2004 and had my first job in 2005. I've worked for two companies (my choice to only work for these two) - Titan Travel out of England and West Forever (Harley tours), an Australian subsidiary of a French company. We did Rt. 66 from Chicago to LA on Harleys this summer (2009) with Aussies and French riders, also did the Great American Railroad and Rockies, Sierras and Napa for Titan. Of course, I have nothing but good things to say about IGA." Karl Thiry writes: "Last summer I led tours for Adventure Travel West and Terres Indiennes leading French Tours all over the Western United States. I had the time of my life. I will be directing a Dutch group in Hawaii for all of January and am already booked for all of the 2010 season. Thank you again for all the direction as I have finally found my true calling. This is more than a job and, even though it is hard work, it is so much fun and so rewarding." Barb Hahn: "I just wanted to say that I really did benefit in many ways from the class I took in 2008, I am still working for Titan, but have changed some of the ways I do things for the passengers. My evaluations have been almost perfect! I would still want to apply to other companies, but Titan is keeping me busy with a good variety this year -- California and the West, National Parks (starting in Denver), Pacific Northwest, and an Alaska cruise-tour. So thing are going well." Below is Paul Sullivan (seated) at the Tropic of Capricorn  Paul
Sullivan, says "I just completed Field Training for
SAGA and will be leading tours to Oberammergau from May-October 2010.
Since March 2009, I have toured in Ireland, England and Wales. Then,
I did four back-to-back tours to France, Belgium, Holland, Luxembourg,
Switzerland, and Germany. My favorite was the "tulip tours"
of Holland and the Keukenhoff Gardens outside Amsterdam. Malaysia
was a blast and, thanks to your training, all went exceptionally
well. Now, I am off to the former "East Germany" to Colditz,
the Mohen Dam, Leipzig, Hamlen, and much more including a trip to
Wimbledon in July. In February 2010, Paul wrote that his tours since
being certified with IGA included "Ireland, England, Wales, France,
Belgium, Switzerland,Germany, Luxembourg, including Rhine and Moselle
cruises, Holland, Moselle Vineyard tours, Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland,
Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, USA, Bahamas cruises and Malaysia. I will
be booked up full time on tours to Oberammergau and the surrounding
areas from June to October 2010. I could not have managed these tours
without your well structured classes, attention to minute details
and constant reminders to confirm, confirm and re-confirm".
Kileen Prather 
Kileen Prather, "This is my schedule which
I have recently completed or have contracts on: Winston Walker, June Neary, Daphne Marrable, and Jim Smith, all IGA graduates, are working for A Private Guide, Inc. Winston is Manager, Operations, June is Vice President, International Sales & Marketing Support, Daphne is Director, Youth and Student Marketing & Sales, and Jim is Director, New Business Development. Bridget Gallagher, Canada: "I have been busy with tours within the Eastern US, French Canada, and the Maritimes. I was hired two years ago by World Strides for the spring tours in Washington and Virginia with the 8th grade students, then on to my tours in the regular season. I have been with Saga Holidays from the UK for 3 years now. I have had great experiences since graduation and started right away with a job with Tourco, then Saga. As you know, I did the Daytona 500 5-day tours for International Speedway in Florida. At present working with Catholic Travel for upcoming Ireland Tours. Of course the Academy will be highly recommended to any students interested in learning more. I am living life to the fullest. None of this would have been possible without your training! Thank you again!" Janet Kucks writes: "Now off to my next excursion to Staten Island, NY for a Senior lunch and show! Next: Bethlehem, PA to see the Christmas lights and capping the year: The Radio City Rockettes Christmas Show. We have made plans for multi-day overnights I will be leading starting in April thru October to: Charleston and Savannah, Newport (Rhode Island) and the mansions, plus Mystic (CT), Bar Harbor (Maine), Ocean City (Maryland), Washington DC and Cherry Blossoms, Niagara Falls, Montreal, and Quebec! " Below is Pauline Standish leading her group
at the January 2009 Presidential Inaugural in Washington, DC
You can tell your students that two of your graduates (Lisa and
I) are already working for Smithsonian. We led two groups for the
Inauguration. All they had to hear was that we were IGA certified.
I was booked all summer, and just began a contract leading tours
along the Mexican Riviera. I cannot thank you enough for the training
and guidance you gave me. Without it, I would not have made it.
This has been a wonderful learning experience! Excellent program!
Thank you. Annette Schmidt (Florida): "I did a training tour, then my own (in 3 languages!!!!) for ATI here in FL, last season, and will be working for them again this season. Will also do the City tours up north and the Foliage Tours as well." Jess MacCartee: "I met with Educational Tours in Alexandria, VA today and will be starting with them on Friday to do Tour Directing in DC and New York. Thanks very much for your help with my resume. Educational Tours has 9 Tour Directors that have attended IGA. I also have an upcoming interview with TrekAmerica and am meeting with Sugar Tours in April." Kent Taylor: "Big news! I accepted a position with TourMappers doing their Canyonlands Tour! I will also be doing three 17-day National Park Tours for Grand Circle Travel. Combined with several other positions I have taken, this is shaping up nicely. Additionally, I led more tours in 2009 than in all of 2008." ---Below is IGA President, Daniel with
students Abdallah from Morocco and Imed from Tunisia.
Some of our December 2009 students from our Denver, Colorado program write: I am so glad this class opened up since all the classes before
this were full when I tried to enroll. Been wanting to do this for
over 10 years, but dd not know there was a certification needed.
Very intense, a lot of work, I never realized how much work my Tour
Managers have done behind the scenes. Looking forward to the next
chapter of my life! I joined this class but was not really sure if I would really like this as a career choice. After taking the Tour Manager course, I know that I want this to be my next step. It is going to be a lot of work, but now I am ready. Thank you for teaching me so much and showing me the path to my future career! ---Jillian Rex I enjoyed this experience so very much! The course was much more intense than I expected since I have been in the industry for many years. I learned so much. ---Eileen Williams I am so glad I was able to take this course. The amount of information is braod and I can see why so many of your graduates take the book with them on tour. It has been fun and I assure you that you will hear from me when I am on my first tour. Great fun! --JoAnn Thomas, Texas Students from previous classes write: I knew the first day of class that I had "found my tribe"!
I am so grateful for the experience and the education. Thank you
for sharing all of your knowledge, ideas, and stories! The last 10 days really exceeded my already high expectations! This training was extremely inspiration and the way each one of the instructors succeeded in teaching us what they have experienced first-hand was absolutely out of this world! ---Jacqueline Malan, South Africa/Canada Thank you for opening a new world for me: the world of Tour Management.
Thanks for your training, leadership, and encouragement. I loved
the "real life" adventures all the instructors shared
with us. Thank you for a wonderful experience. I have learned more in this class than I learned in any class in college. The class was well structured and very fun. Thank you! ---Karl Thompson While this was the most intense class I have ever taken, I would do it again in a heartbeat. I not only learned about becoming a Tour Manager, I also learned a lot about myself and what I am truly capable of. Thanks for keeping in interesting and fun. ---Debbie Buchanan It was worth it for me to come all the way from Tunisia to take this special course. What a privilege it was to be in this class. I return to Tunisia with new knowledge, wonderful skills, and a great learning experience. ---Imed Dabbour, Tunisia Thank you for this outstanding class. It was wonderful the way you guided all of us and shared your knowledge and experiences with us. ---Abdallah Mejdoub, Morocco Thanks so much for your hard work and enthusiasm during this course. You have saved me from 5 years of making mistakes and learning on my own. ---Ross Schmidt, Colorado The professionalism of your course FAR exceeded my expectations. I learned a great deal and appreciate the time spent teaching us what "not" to do. ---Joshua McGowan, California I cannot thank you enough for your wealth of knowledge, enthusiasm, and generous donation of your time. This course has opened my eyes to a whole new life. I look forward to a life-long relationship with IGA. ---Katherine Eaton Thank you all for such an excellent and informative course. What a great venue for a Tour Manager course. Everything was incredibly well organized. I am still in awe of the job searching and networking support that you offer after class. ---Beth Sanna, Canada This program was great and exceeded my expectations! I feel prepared to head into the exciting world of Tour Management. ---Jeannie Travers, Kansas I came to IGA and Cuernavaca not quite knowing what to expect. This course lived up to my expectation and so much more! Thank you so much for helping me finally find my niche in the travel industry. ---Paule Menard-Fok, Canada The program and training went beyond my expectations. This is an
excellent program, and I feel lucky I came across it. If more people
knew about it, I am sure you would be booked and putting students
on a waiting list, (if you have not already). The school went all-out
in giving us such a wonderful graduation party. Thank you for everything.
---Annabelle Fortier, Cuernavaca Mexico program September
2009 ---Below are IGA Instructors Arturo, Frank, Daniel, and Connie
This course was exactly what I wanted and expected. Thanks for doing a great job and for all your help. ---Victor Stefanini, Tennessee Thanks for everything: The laughs, learning, and mostly for a solid foundation that will lead to a new life. ---Jeanne Rogers, Idaho Thanks for a great experience and keep up the great work! ---Sharon Burgin, Oklahoma Very knowledgeable, very informative, great location, great learning environment. ---Valerie Steger, Illinois This has been an awesome experience. I am so glad I made this decision.
I am so grateful for everything, especially the memories. ---Below is IGA Graduate Daphne Marrable.
"I found myself at IGA." Daphne has been hired by A Private
Guide, as their Director of Youth and Student Tours. ---Tim and Elise Lentz hard at work on a cruise line.
This class was fantastic! I've learned so much about the travel industry and myself and I have met the most wonderful people. Thanks. ---Kathy Grillo, Massachusetts I am thankful for this opportunity to get into the Tour Manager business. The two weeks spent here in Mexico are priceless. The education, the sightseeing and the friends I have made. This really is a life changing experience. ---Emilie Daniel, Vermont Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! This has been a great experience and has "stretched" me both personally and professionally. What professionals you are and your enthusiasm and experience is inspiring. ---Jane Pritchett, Florida Now that I know everything there is to know about Tour Management, I figured I should say thank you. I'm looking forward to our continuing friendship and I hope someday I can give back 1/2 of what you have given me. Thanks for helping be break the chains of the box that is the way most people view the world. ---Naomi Gunnels, Florida You changed my life!
Students being trained on a walkling tour
in Cuernavaca..
Robbin Robinson: "I recently was asked to come to a training session for Elderhostel Santa Fe in an Internship capacity. While there, I was hired as an Assistant Tour Director for a trip to Chaco Canyon and another trip to The Four Corners, and will be scheduled for trips throughout the year I am very excited about my new position and know that one of the reasons I was hired was because I was so well trained by the IGA instructors." Rebecca Richardson: "I have been hired by Adventure Travel West to lead a group from France to the Grand Canyon and parks in Utah on a 16-day hiking/camping trip. After this, I will be taking a group to France for barge trips." Becky Brennan: "Thank you for such an incredible experience. I never imagined that I could learn so much. You have developed a course content and teaching method that is amazing and more efficient than any other class I have ever taken, even when obtaining my MBA. My life is far richer for this experience."
Carol Tippelt: "I thoroughly enjoyed this course and feel privileged to have received expert instruction from such an incredible staff! I will be thanking you forever for providing me a solid foundation to excel in this exciting and fulfilling career. Your enthusiasm, passion, and knowledge are impressive. Your training and instructors are TOP NOTCH! I am so thrilled that I found out about IGA! Your students love you." Judy Shormann: "I am so glad I took the plunge to risk a change in my life and come to IGA. It has been an amazing experience. Little did I know that I would be challenged in every way: intellectually, psychologically, and physically. What an incredible feeling of accomplishment that I met the challenge and am looking forward to beginning the next chapter of my life, which would not have been possible without your incredible training." Rodney Sparks: "I want to thank you for an amazing course. I thought the course would be demanding but I never dreamed that I could have so much fun while being challenged so much. I cannot wait to put my new skills to use. Thank you for everything." FROM PRIOR CLASSES: "IGA provided me with a world of opportunities"
---Graduation Fiesta in Cuernavaca Mexico
program.
 "I
lived and studied in the "city of eternal spring" and
where Mexico's past meet me when I left the door of my lodging.'"One of our training trips included a tour of Xochicalco where Mesoamerican high priests studied astronomy and arranged their calendar. We also visited in Cuernavaca the palace built in 1532 by conquistador Hernan Cortes which is now a museum with a fantastic Diego Rivera mural." "I could not have received better teachers. They considered the needs of all the students and were available to us outside of classroom hours." "In my class we had students from Japan, Canada, Ireland, South Africa, France and the USA. I loved making friends with people from all over the world." "Everyday was an unforgettable learning experience." "Our lodging was terrific, the food delicious and the Mexican family hosts where very kind." Past graduates have been busy as well: Dan Dieckhaus: "I recently completed 13 days in Italy visiting Venice, Florence, Cortona, Rome and Sorrento. I have been asked to repeat this tour in August and again in September. I have been hired by Country Walkers of Vermont to co-manage a trip to the Grand Canyon, Bryce, and Zion in late June. I have also signed on with Western Leisure to manage a trip through Colorado consisting of: Denver-Colorado Springs-Durango-Grand Junction-Denver. Flemming Tours has me working this summer with Saga Tours in order to manage future trips for them. I am also working on a trip to Australia for a tour company working with PBS Tours and a trip to Ireland/Scotland for Queenslander in Denver. I want to thank you for all the job leads and guidance you have provided me." Janet Solesky: "This summer I lead 5 New York tours and also a group from India. My first tour was a group with 3 different arrival times at 3 different airports. When all was done, seen and said, I loved dealing with groups from all over. I received 4 "excellent" reviews from the Group Leaders on 4 of my tours, which yielded me 4 bonus checks from the Tour Operator." ---April 2009 Denver program graduates.
Therese Schoen: has her own company, Mythic World Tours, which specializes in high-end tours in Central Europe. She spend much of her time in Vienna, Austria organizing European tours. She plans to expand her business to offer tours of the Western USA to German speaking guests. Justin Stone: "I was hired by Collette Vacations - Full Time! My first tour goes through 4 European countries. Thank you for all the training in Mexico. It definitely helped! " UPDATE:"I continue to move forward with Collette. They sent me to Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji for the entire Spring! I completed the 2 longest tours our company has back-to-back (Journey to the South Pacific and The Complete South Pacific Tour). They have also been sending me to the Czech Republic, Germany, Austria, and Hungary. I will return to Europe for a month in mid-September. Barbara Johnson: "I completed my first two tours in New England for Tourco, which has been my dream for many years. I totally enjoyed this work!! I did a 5-Day and 13-Day Tour. I was gone for three weeks! Thanks to your fine Academy, I was very well prepared for every part of this new career and now feel very confident that I am totally ready for all on-the-road "Tour Manager" responsibilities. I know that many more opportunities are just around the corner!!! Thanks for all your help and for making it fun to learn also!! I have been offered two more tours in the New England area from Tourco (who I did tours for last fall). I worked the spring break and early summer for Smithsonian Student Travels and did a tour with one of your instructors, Roxanne Snell (we had two motorcoaches!). I have been offered a National Parks Tour in September with Globus family of brands and I am ecstatic! " Erin Radoux: "I wish I had discovered your course much earlier in my career. I am confident that the skills I acquired during your incredible course have prepared me to be a world class Tour Manager. I had my first tour with C&G Tours 2 weeks ago. I will take students on a band trip to Oahu, HI and do an 8-day Colorado Rockies Tour via train in July. I am so excited! This class changed my life and I found the courage to take risks that I never thought I could. It was the best decision I ever made." Mary Jane Ulrich: has worked for Air Bear Travel leading tours from Northern Michigan to New Orleans, and Straits Area Step On Guide Service touring the Straits of Mackinac. "I know that the training and encouragement that I received at IGA prepared me well for the motorcoach travel adventures. Attending the International Guide Academy was a positive change for my life! " Cameron Camp: "I want to thank you for all the hard work you put into the classes in Mexico. Because of the excellent training I received from IGA, I am now a French-speaking Tour Director for Adventure Travel West. I will direct hiking and backpacking tours throughout the western and southwestern USA. IGA graduate Kerry Anderson (also from my Mexico class) will be my trainer on my training tour which will be the beginning of a great career! Thanks again for everything." Margot Hanrahan: "At present, I am working steadily for Archeological Tours. I just did an 18-day tour to Peru and leave for Berlin and Vienna in November. I also continue to work for Hospitality Tours and just finished up a week long Cape Cod tour for them. I have been with them for a few years now and have conducted a lot of tours all over the place including Nova Scotia, which I do regularly. I am still doing tours for C&G Tours because I love going to New York City and also because I am loyal to them as they were the first company to give me a chance! I have picked up more companies along the way, most recently Northeast Unlimited Tours in New England. I guess you could say things are going very well!" Karl Thiry, France: "In all honesty I more than enjoyed every moment of your course in Mexico. I was amazed by the classes, my fellow students, the instructors, and accommodations. I will suggest your classes to anyone interested in this industry. I leave Mexico with confidence, memorable experiences, world class training, and a big smile." Roxanne Eflin: "Good news! I have been hired by Alpine Adventure Tours and Tourco, both Maine based Tour Operators, for 5 different tours. I will also be working at the Democratic National Convention. Thank you for giving me the tools and the confidence." (Picture at right is Roxanne and her group from the UK at Portland Headlight, Maine) ---Working with a group from the UK.
Ingrid Beyer, South Africa: "Thank you so very much for everything you taught me. I have truly enjoyed this course beyond my expectations. This course is truly worthwhile!" Autumn Wilson: "This has truly been a great experience! You have given me the confidence to go out and take the leap into this industry thanks to everything you taught me. Thank you for everything!" Adrianne Wiegenstein: "This course was everything I had hoped for, and more. I am convinced that, because of your class, my career change decision has been more than validated. I have grown and learned so much from all of you. Thanks for the opportunity to participate in this great class." Karen Dunne: "After working for 2 years for Royal Celebrity Cruises in Alaska (what an incredible job!) I am in my second year with Adventures by Disney. This year I will be doing the "Spirit of America" tour, which is Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and Williamsburg. I am also doing the Wyoming tour which includes Jackson, Yellowstone, and Brooks Lake Lodge. I had a blast doing this tour in 2007 whitewater rafting on the Snake River, hiking through Yellowstone, and horseback riding and canoeing at Brooks Lake Lodge. As my friends tell me, I obviously do not want to grow up. I just want to be a Tour Manager forever! Can you imagine spending your summers touring the Smithsonian, the National Zoo, running up the steps of the Philadelphia Mint, running through a hedge maze in Williamsburg, and enjoying the water park at the Gray Wolf Hotel? Talk about feeling lucky...this is a dream come true...Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!" Elizabeth Quin: "Today I was offered a Tour Manager position with Collette Tours after a 5-day Tour/Interview process. There were 6 other IGA graduates there as well, most of whom were offered positions. Thank you for the training in Cuernavaca and all your wonderful help with my resume. I would not be here without you." ---Daniel Nduati from Kenya.
Albina Luther: "I have been hired by Travel Tours as part of their "travel family". There are over 100 trip offerings for 2008. The class in Denver helped so much. I send many thanks to Daniel and Frank for all of their knowledge and teaching skills. My resume, cover letter, and interview all went well because of this class." Jean Greene: "I am leading groups from the U.K. on 8-day tours of New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. I will also be in Alaska for the entire summer season with Royal Celebrity. I was offered many other positions before deciding to work the season in Alaska. I am sure the training you gave me really gave me the edge to land this position during my interview. Thank you so much!" ---Tom McCarron, Canada.
Tom McCarron, Canada:"I wanted to let you know that Globus family of brands has me doing their Maritime Coastal Adventure Tour. I will be doing this 13-day tour for the entire season. I have also been hired by two other companies to conduct local guiding off of the cruise ships for September and October after my current tour ends for the season." (Tom is pictured here) Nancy Cygan states: "I am so excited! I will be working for New Horizons doing customized trips for middle school and high school bands, orchestras, and choral groups. I will be starting in Chicago and Midwest destinations. I also have 3 Chicago based trips and 1 in Minneapolis. I have been interviewing Holland America Cruiselines to work as a land-based Tour Director and I was offered the job. My itineraries include: Seaward, Anchorage, Denali, Fairbanks, Beaver Creek, Whitehorse, Skagway, Dawson, and the Arctic Circle. Thank you so much for all your help and support! " ---Jeff Goody on tour in Canada.
Lynn Helmers: "I just got off a tour and made HUGE money. I had 52 passengers and made $$$$ in tips and $$$$ in commissions, and I am expecting a good salary check as well. Passengers were from England, USA, Canada, Australia, and South Africa. They were a GREAT group! I still love doing the tours! Thanks for the training!" Cheryl Sennett, Texas: "I have two tours for Globus family of brands. Both are "Colorado's National Parks & Trains" 9 day tours. I have a training tour, then 2 tours on my own. After that, I have a 14 day tour called "Grand New England". So, I am booked! Thanks for your help and thanks for a great class! Lisa Shoemaker, Kansas, writes: "I found a company right in my own back yard, and a week later I was hired. So, I now have at least 3 companies that I will get tours from. I am ready now and very excited to finally be getting started!" ---IGA graduate, Dr. Yumi Hasegawa from
Japan.
David Shaffer, Colorado, wrote: "I have to admit that I struggled with the decision to take this course. Is it right for me? Is it the right time? After the first day, my questions were answered. This was the right decision. It has been a long time since I learned so much while having such fun. Your passion shows through every day!" Cella Roberts wrote: "It was my lucky day when I looked up Tour Guide Schools and up popped IGA! I appreciate your level of integrity. You run a very professional and practical Tour Guide class. I was truly excited to come to classes and I am that much more excited to give my first paid tour! You have touched the lives of many in such a positive manner. I also admire your compassion, understanding and humanitarian efforts that make yours such a fabulous school." 
Carolyn Emanuel, Colorado, has been the Program Coordinator/Guide for Road Scholar/Elderhostel for trips in Mesa Verde. She has guided in Mesa Verde including the Durango to Silverton Narrow Gauge Train trips, the Four Corners area, Mesa Verde, Canyon Country, Rafting the San Juan river. Currently, she is doing Grand Circle Tours "America's National Parks" plus 2 Paria Canyon backpacking trips in October. Then, London and Paris. Carolyn and Duncan Rollo have their own Tour Company, "Back Story Tours". They specialize in behind-the-scenes tours of America's cultural and natural treasures. Tours are designed for groups of 12 to 18 people with transportation provided in 21-passenger mini-buses. Jennifer Bennett, Ohio, writes "I wanted to give you some good news. I was hired to lead 4 tours for student groups and I'm very grateful for that."
---Tour Manager Graduates.
Beth VanAernem, Arizona, writes: "I wanted to let you know I am currently working for Detours of Arizona doing local trips to places like the Grand Canyon and Sedona. I started there two months ago and I truly love it! Detours is a small company started five years ago by two former Tour Guides. What I learned in your classes was invaluable and opened up these doors for me I never knew existed. Thank you for that." Cynthia Fischer, has been running groups to Europe for several years, and also works her own travel franchise specializing in cruises. ---Tour Guide Graduates.
Kathleen Huser, is working rail tours with Mid America Tours, Inc. She is scheduled for 2 more upcoming tours: Chicago to Branson, MO and "West Virginia Autumn Railroading". She will also have at least 2 more tours before year end. Jacqui Rothman, Illinois, wrote: "I am happily working for two touring companies out of Illinois. One does student tours and the other is involved in tours for "mature travelers" I love both jobs and enjoy the similarities and differences of the people on my coaches." Chrys Foster, Washington, "Thanks for this - not only for the information but also for IGA's efforts in making it come to pass. I led a group to Venice, Milan, and the Lake District. I had to connect with local guides at each stop. By and large they were exceptional. I got the AAA Rose Parade assignment. Thank you! Additionally, I am still deep in discussions with another Tour Operator and a late entrant who also wants me to work for them." Serena Tamburrini, Rome, Italy writes "I just wanted to take some time aside to let you know how much I enjoyed your program. It was a real revelation to me and an amazing experience! You were truly exceptional and I am so glad that I had the opportunity to come to Colorado. I will definitely recommend your school to whoever I will meet along the way interested in this career. I learned a lot these last 10 days, not only the things that you taught us in class but above all how it is important to never judge and always respect the cultural differences and customs. You gave me even more inspiration to work and deal with people from all over the world. Thank you so much for this opportunity!" Terri McDonald, reports "I am working as an Account Executive and International Tour Director for CE tours, also with AFC Tours & Cruises, and Tourco. Because the focus on of International Guide Academy course was on experiential learning, I was able to capitalize on my 25 years of travel experience and successfully find and move into a new career. The course was comprehensive, fun, personal, and exciting. I met friends there that I still stay in contact with on a regular basis and the follow-up placement assistance and help with developing my cover letter and resume has been fabulous. I am leading a 16-day trip through the Southwest National Parks starting tomorrow. Those skills you taught me are really coming in handy for all of the tours I have already managed, and for the ones coming up. I have back-to-back tours in October for 2 weeks each. I am very excited. I continue to tell people what a wonderful academy you have. I hope many of them will take my advice and attend IGA." Angela Bolender, reports that "I just got a job offer. I'll be working for a company, Student City, Inc. in Cancun, Mexico. The on-site coordinator position includes event management and staffing, meet and greet arrivals at the airport, hotel management and staffing, optional tour sales, promotions, coordinate venues and suppliers, lobby duty, 24-hour duty and various on-site tasks." ---Tour Manager Students at Xochicalco in Mexico.
Esther Staheli, Switzerland, "Thank you again very much for these very interesting and special 10 days in your academy. Everybody, including me, was so excited about the way you teach, the contents of the classes, the variety of people you brought into the classes, and so much more. You showed all of us a new way of life and opened up doors for us. Thank you!!! I am looking forward to staying in touch with you." Armando "Arnie" Davila, Puerto Rico: Arnie has been hired by Rico SunTours as a Tour Guide in Puerto Rico. He has also been contracted as a Tour Guide with Explorica Canada. "This experience was priceless, and your training was key in giving this group such a good impression of the DMC I represented." ---Arnie has joined the IGA instructors staff in 2009 for our Spanish Language Tour Manager Course. Marsha Adelson, Pennsylvania writes: "I have been hired by one of the companies in the Hiring Book you gave us at graduation. I will be doing tour for them with school groups from the Pittsburgh area to Williamsburg, VA and Gettysburg, PA. I have also been asked to be their primary Tour Escort/Manager for tour this fall, which I am very much looking forward to." Linda Knowles, Virginia, is currently working with the Washington DC Guide Service. Lisa Johnson and Diana Geis, Texas, have their own tour company, Tour Time Adventures, based out of Archer City, TX. They specialize in local tours of casinos and sites in Texas and Oklahoma. Their motto is "Take Time To Enjoy Life" because time waits for no one. ---Sofia, Canada/Mexico showing her fluency in 4 languages.
Roberta Greengard, worked with Seniors Tour Canada. She states "I am the step-on guide for the Seniors Tour Canada. I am soooooooo excited. Thank you for the part you had in me getting this opportunity." Georgiana Vavra, Wisconsin, states: "My Tour Director position is with Fancy-Free Holidays, Inc. I was so glad to get my foot in the door. They have hired another grad from IGA also. The information imparted to me during the interview was already learned from IGA. I will first be on a Mystery Tour for 5 days. Then I start my solo Tour Directing." Ken Bohl, has been hired by Mayflower for their "Branson Showtime" and "Land of Lincoln" tours. Since graduating, Ken has also worked for World Wide Country Tours, the "Frankenmuth Oktoberfest" for Mayflower, "America by Rail" to Branson, and the "Pella Tulip Fest / Amana Tour" for Mid-America Tours. Ken wrote that "I feel very strongly that being an IGA graduate already got me in the door, they had already decided to hire me based on that, and the interview process was just a validation of the qualifications they already knew I had because I was Certified by IGA. I'm sure that the skills you taught me will make me very successful on these tours." Derek Haddon, is now working for Suntrek Tours as a trek leader. "After my training with IGA, I knew I could do it. In fact, attending your school, I believe, was a big plus for them considering me." 
Stacy Messer, Idaho, shortly after graduating began working a yearlong assignment in the Middle East as a Tour Manager. Now with a year's experience Stacy reports "I recently worked in the Middle East (Egypt & Jordan) after completing the Tour Manager course with the International Guide Academy, and had one of the best experiences of my life. I learned a great deal about passenger expectations, the culture, the adventure and how they view the Middle East before they visit and afterwards, which is completely different. I was at an advantage when I worked in the Middle East, because many of the Tour Managers had no professional training and, thanks to the International Guide Academy, I was one of the most professionally prepared. The Middle East is a wonderful place to work as a Tour Manager." Jennie Reckon, Canada, writes "I just wanted to tell you that I was just offered a position as a Tour Manager for Globus family of brands, and that I accepted it. Thanks for all of your support throughout this process!" Michael Hagerman, reports that "I drove a tour bus for 16 years then took the IGA Tour Manager course and was hired for two seasons by Destination America - now Trafalgar Tours." Mike is now the owner of Synergy Tours in Scottsdale, Arizona and his company conducts motorcoach tours of North America. Maureen O'Donnell, reports, "I was hired by Fancy-Free Holidays as a Tour Director. My training tour will be in September; followed by a covered bridges tour in Indiana...I gave all of the correct answers in the interview thanks to excellent preparation from your International Tour Manager Course." Catherine Palmieri, reports "I wanted to let you know that I have started a new job that I am very excited about. I was hired in by Holbrook Travel, a tour operator located Florida. I work in the Elderhostel Department, planning and preparing Elderhostel trips. I feel very lucky to have this job, and definitely believe that my tour manager certification was a major factor in my hiring. It is nice to know that I now have my “first job,” and it is actually in the travel industry." ---Cathy Duran, always smiling.
Jim McIntosh, is now in his thirteenth season with Globus family of brands and reports "I am forever grateful for the chance I was given there for a second career." Kristi Allred, Arizona, has worked for Rocky Mountain Connections. Her recent co-ordination of a convention group included local motorcoach and walking tours. As part of her job, she hired IGA grads to perform these tours. They were: Ed Tezak, Leo McGinnis, Gaye Buzbee Jacobs, Dr. Jack Murphy, and Frank Slater. Lowell "Lucky" and Susie Cary, Wyoming, were hired as Tour Managers within days of graduation. They report that "Our training at IGA certainly came in handy and our employers were most happy with our qualifications and expertise. We managed a promotional campaign for a NASCAR team." Susie and Lucky traveled all over the western U.S. promoting the race team's sponsor. "We enjoyed our experience at IGA. We are proud to tell people about our experience and feel enriched by the experience." Charlotte Dodgson, received her first assignments within weeks of graduation. She completed tours such as the National Park Tour for Vantage Tours, Wyoming Trails for Montana Rockies Rail Tours, and guide work in Colorado for Around and About and in Washington, DC for ETS, Corporation. Charlotte also does volunteer work with tours at Glen Eyrie Castle in Colorado, State Capital Building in Sacramento, California and Castlewood Canyon State Park in Colorado. She is a member of the International Association of Tour Managers, Rocky Mountain Guide Association, Historic Preservation Alliance of Colorado Springs and the US National Park Association. Bonnie Mealy, inputted "I thought I'd let you know I just completed my first Tour Director assignment for a tour company out of Maine -- Tourco. My assignment was a 9-day New England tour with mostly British folks. It was a spectacular experience! I did as you suggested in class. I want you to know how much your class prepared me for this new career. I don't know if I'd have been as effective...and experienced if I'd not taken your class. " John Niedoborski, spent 2 years full time with Maritz Travel Company. John then began serving corporate clients through a variety of Travel Companies for over four more years. He has completed over 175 programs, and is getting booked a year in advance in some cases. He has also just formed his own business- Johnny Travels LLC. ---Daniel Slater, left side of picture,
leading a tour at Chichen Itza.
Leo McGinnis, has been teaching the "Early Denver - 1858-1860" class to elementary students at the Colorado History Museum, is a member of the Rocky Mountain Guide Association and has been active on their education committee in setting up FAM trips within Colorado. He has been giving walking tours of Denver and the Lebanon Silver Mine in Georgetown provided by the Colorado Historical Society for elementary students. Leo just completed his first commercial tour in Denver for Rocky Mountain Connections. Doris Reimers, has been hired by Montana Rockies Rail tours and will cover much of the northwest USA and parts of Canada. Gaye Buzbee Jacobs, Colorado has received assignments from Kindred Spirits to lead tours and has worked for a number of other sightseeing companies. Ed Kobylus, reports, “I wanted to let you know that I've landed my first contract. I'll be leading back-to-back tours through the Southwest (focusing on the National Parks). I'll be working for Adventure Travel West. With my interest in "active" travel, I couldn't imagine a better way to start this new career.” Mark Thompson, reports that Royal Celebrity Tours is bringing him back again next season in the same capacity, helping with hiring and organizations. Mark writes “I just wanted to express my gratitude to you…your school was invaluable to me.” He also updates us with the news that he has been assigned to a second ship, the M/S Majesty with RCL. Rhonda Davis, working as assistant Tour Director with Prudent Tours. Assignments include tours to Cheyenne Rodeo and the Rockies, Branson Christmas Extravaganza and she is scheduled for Spring in the Smokies. Liz Harris, Florida, is working as a Tour Guide for Diva Ducks. Diva Ducks runs amphibious tours throughout the West Palm Beach area. Mary Lou Cote, writes she has been “all over the world”. She worked in Hawaii for 4 months. Then was hired to work on the ship Universe Explorer. Mary Lou did Central America around the Panama Canal, then Alaska for 9 weeks. Following that off to Cuba, Brazil, Cape Town, India, Viet Name, Singapore, Korea, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Tanzania, Russia, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan. On the Universe Explorer she was working as a purser. JoAnn Wittenborn, reports she has completed her training tours for Cruises and Tours Worldwide. Joann completed a tour to San Antonio in December and 4 – 6 more assignments in 2007. Mary Ricketts, has been hired by Globus family of brands as a Tour Controller. Mary will be overseeing operations of the Western USA and South American tours and supervising the Tour Directors. Mary writes, “I’m really looking forward to it.” She has worked for Timberline Adventures leading hiking and biking tours in the Western USA. Marcia Omafray, has worked for EF Explore America. On the east coast she has covered Boston, New York City and Washington, DC. In the west, she has covered Bryce, Zion, and National Monument, rafting on the Colorado River, Moab, Kanab and Las Vegas. John Doherty, Massachusetts, is working as a Step-on Guide for Pitcairn Tours, Ltd. He has 15 assignments working with the cruise ships that stop in Boston. He is also working as a Tour Manager doing 4 Fall Foliage Tours for Sugar Tours covering Burlington, Lake Morey, Quechee Gorge, Woodstock, Stowe, and Montpelier. 
Tim and Elise Lentz, have worked for Windstar Cruises as a Husband/Wife Host and Hostess team. Their contract begins in the Baltic, and will continue with ports in the Mediterranean throughout the fall. They then travel across the Atlantic and will tour the Caribbean during the Winter months. Their contracts are 6 months on, 2 months off, and they will rotate between the fleet's 3 ships. They state, “We are very excited about this opportunity and want to thank IGA for their support.” Michael Cole, reports that he has been offered a contract by Norwegian Cruise Lines in the Shore Excursions Dept. He will be starting out on the Dawn, departing New York to the Bahamas and Miami and then next spring will be a part of their new Flagship America program in Hawaii. Also, Michael put together his own tour group together for the Florida Buffet show's Spring program. Rhonda Cain, hired by Holland America Westours for the entire season in Alaska and Canada's Yukon Territory. Prior to the start of her season in Alaska, she worked with Family Excursions as a Tour Guide and Tour Director doing tours throughout California for Christian Schools. Rhonda said, "being certified made all the difference in getting the job." Rhonda has worked for Uniworld doing river cruises in Europe. She reports that "my studying has paid off." Toni Bain, reports “I am working as the Tour Manager on the American Queen Steamboat. This has given me the opportunity to visit many cities and towns along the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers. I love the work and believe my training and certification had a lot to do with me being hired.” Dick Kildahl, reports “I just wanted to let you know I have accepted a position as Tour Escort/Guide with Montana Rockies Rail Tours. I conducted all of their "Crown of the Continent" Tours for the season. The tours begin in either Spokane, WA or Sandpoint, ID and include southeastern British Columbia, southwestern Alberta, Canada, Waterton/Glacier International Peace park and Northwestern Montana. Thanks for IGA's help and I will keep you posted of any subsequent developments.” John Sandor, started working for Globus family of brands the year he graduated. He has worked for them as a Tour Director in the Eastern USA, Canadian Grand Tour and the Famous Trails Coast to Coast (New York to Los Angeles) Tour. John is from Ohio and states "I take great pride in being an ambassador for our country and its culture to so many travelers to North America. Thanks to the International Guide Academy for the excellent launch into the tour industry." He is working for R+E Tours which specializes in student tours to Washington D.C. He was hired by GLAMER, (Group Leaders of America), which is a group travel trade show production company. He travels around the country with them to shows, helping to provide support for the exhibitors and the invited groups. John has worked over 50 shows with GLAMER. Judy Lambert, has worked for Globus family of brands and Archers in eastern U.S.A. and Canada. Many of her tours include the autumn glory of New England. Judy is now one of the hiring managers for Globus family of brands. Pam Jones, working for Globus family of brands, Women Traveling Together, and is currently training to be an Annapolis Three Centuries guide. She has completed the Naval Academy training. She is also pursuing a Washington, DC license. Pam wrote and said “Thanks again for your great training; I could not do any of this without IGA. You're wonderful!” Cheryl Baird, reports she conducted tours for New Horizons, for 4 straight months. Cheryl passed her Washington, D.C. Tour Guide test. She will be conducting tours in D.C., Williamsburg, and Virginia Beach, and is currently a guide at the U.S. Capitol. Desmond Doss, Jr., is offering Private Guide Service in the lower Columbia River area. They expect a tremendous influx of visitors during the next two years in connection with the Lewis and Clark celebration. Desmond wrote “Thank you for opening the door to a new profession for me and from Aboard "MOSSBACK", Godspeed.” Chris Cobb, Maine, was hired by Globus family of brands. Chris has lead tours in the Eastern US and Atlantic Canada, has worked for Globus family of brands since graduating from IGA and now works full time as a guiding Tour Director for Globus family of brands. Rennette Grace, has worked for Maritz, Inc., Tour America and Creative Group, Inc. Jeff Goody, Tour Manager grad has worked in Alaska, Canada, coast to coast US (New York to San Francisco), and US Southwest for Explore Worldwide. He has done on-board commentary and city tours. Darleen Mihulka, graduated from the Tour Manager and Tour Guide courses in 1990. She recertified as an International Tour Manager in 2002. Darleen has worked for Centennial Tours and is a volunteer at the Colorado Welcome Center. Additionally, she has, for several years, escorted day trips to northern Colorado areas for four senior groups. Ty Hallmark, Florida, worked for the National Educational Travel Council as a Tour Consultant, customizing and packaging tours to Europe. Janna Campbell, is working for Maritz Travel Company and says, "I absolutely love it." Her recent assignments have taken her to Dallas, Nashville, Las Vegas, Maui and on a Caribbean cruise. Her next assignment is in Vancouver, B.C. Debbie Williams, has already had three job opportunities. She has chosen to be an Interpretive Driver/Guide in Glacier National Park in Montana. Linda Cochran, has served as Secretary of the National Federation of Tourist Guide Association. Additionally, her tour manager assignments have been with the American Orient Express. Elaine Johnston, has her own company in Tennessee, The Glade Explorers. Jorge de la Torre, conducts culinary tours to France. Jorge, a New Jersey resident, recently got engaged while in Paris. Jorge is now in charge of the culinary programs at Johnson and Wales, Denver Colorado. Carolyn Unger, working in Alaska for Royal Celebrity. Carolyn lives in Alaska and has also worked for Premier Alaska Tours, and with Globus family of brands and Brennan groups and with Princess Tours. She has done shipboard commentary and city tours. Anna Elkind, is working as a docent at the Molly Brown House Museum. (Anna is from Russia and was a Tour Guide at the Hermitage.) Janey Davenport, is currently living in Wisconsin. Her work with Holiday Vacations has taken her to various parts of the USA, Canada and Australia. Beverly Kerras, lives in the state of Washington and has her own company, BJ's Travels. She escorts her tours which are cruises. Noel Cox, a Maine resident, from the International Tour Manager program and started work with Tauck. Her assignments were in Europe with a series of London to Paris two week tours. Kelly Rossiter, is currently one of the hiring managers for Grand Luxe Lines, formerly the American Orient Express. Grand Luxe lines provides high end travel on passenger trains and has been featured many times on PBS. 
Marc Godwin, works for Signature Tours and has been in Asia, Canada, USA and Mexico. He has done China and is doing the French Riviera and Italian Riviera. Cathy and Gordon Illg, have their own photography tour company, Adventure Photography, and have lead tours in North America. They also work for Timberline Tours, leading hiking and biking tours. Have you flown on Frontier Airlines? If you have, some of the wildlife photos on this airline's tails were taken by Gordon and Cathy. They report that they are “still having a good time in the tour business”. Sally Mansfield, works with Cosmos and does her tours in New England. Sue McEnroe, worked for Mayflower. Her tour assignments included the USA and Mexico. Joe and Jan McDaniel, began their own company after being certified with IGA, Elephant Tours, with high-end tours to Africa. Jean Williams, has conducted railroad tours and Branson tours, for Centennial Travelers. Pat LaRock, has worked for Great Time Tours and Southwest Tours, including USA, Canada, Great Britain and Italy. E. L. Butterworth, does the Eastern and Southeastern areas of the USA plus Canada for Globus family of brands. Mai Sparti, works for New Horizons/American Coach and Aristotle Travel (Greece) and has formed her own company, Global Paths. Mai is a Georgia resident. Jim McIntosh, has worked for 8 years with Globus family of brands. Robert Scianmanico, has worked for Suntrek in the USA, including Alaska plus Canada. His work has taken him to Europe and Africa. Bob is a New York resident, although he is currently living in Denmark. Donna Hoffman, works her assignments in Colorado, Las Vegas and Branson. Bonnie Oxley, conducted local tours specifically forIGA students. Susan Zimmerman, works at Escort Notes located in Minnesota. Kathleen Minnex, Ph.D., after graduating worked with Globus family of brands. Her specialty is history and she conducts tours in association with the History Channel. She enjoys living in Georgia. Kristine Liggio, has worked for Tauck in Norway and Germany. Sharon Ellis, works for American Orient Express and Globus family of brands and Archers. Sharon came to the course from Florida. David Charney, has his own company, Wheel N Away Tours, and conducts bike tours in Russia. Patricia McMillan, has worked for A Private Guide. Troy Seate, has worked several seasons for Group Voyages and is a published author. Back To Top |
Tracy Causley: "I recently landed a job with
Sugar Tours and Elderhostel. I have my own 12-day tour in October
the runs through Boston, Vermont, New York, Philadelphia, Williamsburg
and Annapolis. It is called 'Tracing the Roots of the American Revolution'.
Chris Donnelly called me specifically because I was an IGA graduate.
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