Ohio Tourism Leadership Academy

The Ohio Tourism Leadership Academy is designed to
develop future leaders of our industry. OTLA is for tourism professionals who want to take the next step in advancing his or her career.

This innovative program’s goals are to: sharpen leadership skills, increase networks, gain a greater understanding of the industry at the statewide level and have an increased understanding of boardmanship. OTLA is specifically for professionals in Ohio’s tourism industry and is open to candidates representing associations, visitors bureaus, businesses and other entities of the hospitality industry.

Through education, expanded networks and skill development, participants in the program are encouraged to become active tourism industry leaders at the statewide level. Over the course of seven months, the class meets to discuss topical issues facing the industry. 

Presenters representing different sectors of the industry and state government offer their insight on how travel and tourism impacts their position and their business or organization. Class participants are assigned group projects to determine how to overcome a particular challenge currently facing Ohio’s tourism industry.

“This academy provided professional growth, networking and insight into the tourism industry. Meeting with legislators, state officials, and industry partners strengthened our knowledge and confidence as emerging leaders in Ohio’s tourism industry. I would recommend the Ohio Tourism Leadership Academy to colleagues and associates all around the state.”
— Mark Winchell, Executive Director, Ashtabula County Convention & Visitors Bureau

Applications are now being accepted for the Class of 2012!

General Program Schedule

November
OTLA Applications are due

January
Ohio Arts and Culture

February
Economic Development

March
Natural Resources and Recreation

April
Legislative Advocacy

May
Media and Communications

June
Historic Preservation and Heritage

October
Graduation during the Ohio Conference on Tourism