Teens Get a Look into the Tourism Industry at the King Career Center

The center has been teaching tourism classes to high school juniors and seniors for decades to help them find jobs

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By Alexis Fernandez

Story Created: May 8, 2012 at 9:31 PM AKDT

Story Updated: May 9, 2012 at 8:49 AM AKDT

ANCHORAGE - For many teens an interest in the tourism industry begins in a King Career Center classroom.

Kelly Bender, owner of Lazy Otter Charters based in Whittier, is one of many former teens who found her calling at the center.

“The guide talked about the program and opportunities in the field and that’s when my fate was sealed,” Bender said.

The center has been teaching tourism classes to high school juniors and seniors for decades to help them find jobs.

“I always knew I had a secure job in the summer,” she said.

“There’s such a need, such a demand for good strong employees, for customer service,” said Jolene McJunkin, instructor for the tourism class.

McJunkin says the class teaches valuable skills that help them succeed in the industry.

“These students are prepared to deal with it and have strong communication skills and intelligence about where they are living,” said McJunkin.

Visit Alaska estimates that 40,000 jobs are created across Alaska in the tourism industry, which includes 20,000 in the Southcentral area alone.

“People don't understand that it can become a career, it is a great career, whether in accounting, designing, mechanic,” said Bender.

She says she's a prime example of where tourism can take you.
 

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bobbing for apples said on Tuesday, May 8 at 11:31 PM

Yeah, but you need to report, that it is only SEASONAL work. Summer time only, so the work isn't that long, and mostly hires out of state college students. Need to report the truth, for once people. Try it for a change.

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Patti said on Wednesday, May 9 at 6:49 AM

I did this in 1982 and got a wonderful job with the Alaska Railroad! One of my favorite jobs ever! It is only a summer job but I think that is the point, to be able to test the waters and see what you would like to do. Then look for a position that is a full time job after deciding what you want to do. I was also asked to come back the following summer, but couldn't I had a full time job somewhere else and I had graduated, needing a full time job. I think it is a great opportunity for young people.

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