WASHINGTON, D.C.—Destination DC (DDC), the official destination marketing organization for Washington, D.C., announces its expanded Special Agent Academy training platform designed to equip travel agents, tour operators, and local hospitality workers with the essential knowledge and tools to effectively promote and sell Washington, D.C., as a premier travel destination.
The Washington, D.C., Special Agent Academy offers destination training combined with core city information and in-depth insights into D.C.’s vibrant neighborhoods, festivals, and unique landmarks. By completing designated “missions,” participants will become certified “Special Agents,” gaining access to exclusive discounts, the opportunity to win exciting prizes, and valuable support from Destination DC’s tourism, sports and visitor experience team.
The Washington, D.C. Special Agent Academy modules are currently complete in the English language and will be presented in seven additional languages throughout the next few months to support DDC’s efforts to grow international visitation and increase awareness of the nation’s capital for a global audience.
“We know there is ‘Only One Washington, D.C.,’ and we want to share that message with consumers and hospitality professionals,” says Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO of DDC. “The training tools will help us enhance the knowledge, image, and perception of Washington, D.C., as we focus on growing D.C.’s global visitor market share and set our city apart.”
The program is available on a new Learning Management System (LMS) platform, LearnUpon, which is notable for its ease of use. Available now in English, the modules will be translated into seven different languages: Spanish, Portuguese, Mandarin, Korean, Japanese, French, and German.
As part of the initial offering, participants can access the first three core modules: Mission Information; Mission 3M’s: Monuments, Memorials, and Museums; and Mission There’s Only 1 DC. By the end of the year, Destination DC will introduce additional modules, including: Sports & Festivals, Group Tour, Capital Region USA, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions).
“The knowledge gained through the Special Agent Academy will not only enhance the skills of those in the travel and hospitality sectors but also enrich the overall visitor experience in Washington, D.C.,” adds Ferguson. “Our city is filled with extraordinary arts, culture, culinary delights, and accommodations, and we are excited to share them with the world.”
