Catherine Shelton is one of five David Riddell Scholarship recipients who will be attending SITE Global Conference 2025 thanks to the generous support of SITE Foundation.
Here is Catherine’s winning essay submission, where she details the impact the incentive travel industry has made in her life and career so far.
Having a career in the incentive travel industry has had a profound and multifaceted impact on my life, extending to my personal experiences, family dynamics, and community contributions.
While this industry is dedicated to designing and executing travel experiences that reward and motivate employees, it has had a similar impact on me, enriching various aspects of my life in significant ways.
Personal impact
Professionally, my role in the incentive travel industry has been both challenging and immensely rewarding.
The opportunity to design and manage incentive trips has allowed me to travel to diverse and exciting destinations, ranging from vibrant urban centers to serene natural landscapes.
Each destination presents its own set of unique experiences, and immersing myself in different cultures and environments has broadened my understanding of the world. For instance, organizing a high-profile incentive trip to Bali not only introduced me to its rich history and innovative culture but also provided a firsthand look at how global business practices intersect with local traditions.
This exposure has fostered a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and global perspectives. It has also honed my professional skills, such as strategic planning, problem-solving, and creative thinking.
The complexity of coordinating logistics, accommodating client preferences, and ensuring the seamless execution of travel experiences has enhanced my ability to manage high-pressure situations and adapt to evolving circumstances. These skills have been beneficial not only in my career but also in my personal life, where adaptability and effective problem-solving are invaluable.
Networking is another crucial aspect of working in this industry. Interacting with a wide range of clients, industry professionals, and destination representatives has expanded my professional network and opened doors to new opportunities.
These connections have provided valuable insights into industry trends and practices, further enriching my knowledge and expertise. The relationships built through incentive travel have often led to collaborative projects and partnerships that continue to benefit my career.
Family impact
On a familial level, working in the incentive travel industry has provided my family with exceptional opportunities to experience travel and adventure.
The nature of incentive trips occasionally include family-friendly elements, allowing my husband and children to join me on these journeys. This has enabled us to explore new destinations together, engage in activities tailored to all age groups, and create lasting memories. For example, a recent industry event in Madrid happened to fall over my husband’s 40th birthday. Fortunately, he was able to join me for a portion of the trip and we even extended in Barcelona on the front end. It was a bucket-list trip for him, and I am so glad I was able to help make it happen through the work I do!
These shared travel experiences have strengthened our family bonds by providing quality time together in unique settings. Exploring new destinations and participating in diverse activities have not only been enjoyable but also educational. My children, for instance, through my travels, have had the opportunity to learn about different cultures, languages, and histories through our travels, broadening their worldview and fostering a sense of global curiosity.
Moreover, the sense of pride and accomplishment that comes with my role in the incentive travel industry has positively influenced my family’s perspective on work and achievement.
Seeing the tangible results of my efforts and the positive impact of the incentive trips on clients and colleagues reinforces the value of dedication and excellence. This has inspired a shared appreciation for the role that hard work and creativity play in achieving success.
Community impact
The broader impact of working in the incentive travel industry on my community is both significant and multifaceted.
The economic benefits derived from incentive travel are substantial. Organizing incentive trips often involves collaboration with local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues. This collaboration stimulates economic activity within the community, providing a boost to local businesses and creating job opportunities. The increased demand for services and amenities during incentive trips can lead to improvements in local infrastructure and the overall quality of life.
Additionally, incentive travel often incorporates elements of corporate social responsibility, which can have a positive impact on the community. Some incentive programs include community service projects or partnerships with local charities, offering support to local causes and initiatives. For example, organizing a team-building activity that involves volunteering at a local charity not only benefits the community but also enhances the overall experience for participants. This integration of social responsibility into incentive programs fosters a sense of giving back and reinforces the importance of contributing to the well-being of the community.
The visibility and reputation of the community can also be positively influenced by the incentive travel industry. By showcasing the community as a desirable destination for incentive trips, we can attract further tourism and investment. This increased visibility highlights local culture and heritage, promoting a greater appreciation and preservation of unique community attributes. It also provides opportunities for local artisans, performers, and cultural organizations to gain exposure and support.
Conclusion
Working in the incentive travel industry has had a transformative impact on my personal life, my family, and my community. It has provided me with enriching experiences, professional growth, and valuable networking opportunities.
For my family, it has created memorable travel experiences and fostered a sense of pride and accomplishment.
The community benefits from economic stimulation, social responsibility initiatives, and increased visibility associated with incentive travel.
The rewards of working in this industry extend far beyond the immediate scope of my job. They encompass personal fulfillment, strengthened family relationships, and positive contributions to the community.
As I continue my career in incentives, I remain grateful for the opportunities it has afforded me and the lasting impact it has made on those around me.
