PANTOUR at IAAPA Europe Expo 2024

In today’s rapidly evolving world, the global attractions, leisure, and tourism industries face significant challenges in workforce development. Skills shortages, by technological, societal, and economic shifts, are influencing the future of work. This session, part of IAAPA’s Human Capital Exchange, is designed to explore these pressing issues and provide practical, innovative solutions to bridge the current and future skills gap.In collaboration with PANTOUR (European Pact for Next Tourism Generation Skills) and CELTH (Centre of Expertise in Leisure, Tourism and Hospitality), this workshop will provide exclusive insights into the latest research, tools, and strategies for addressing skills needs in the attractions, tourism, and hospitality sectors. PANTOUR’s initiatives, such as the Sectoral Skills Intelligence Monitor and Skills Lab, aim to upskill and reskill the workforce, preparing businesses and employees for a green, digital, and socially sustainable future.

 

This dynamic session drew on PANTOUR’s research, industry workshops, and best practices, focusing on key aspects of skills development:

• Attracting and retaining talent in a competitive market
• Mapping current skills gaps and defining the future skills needs for an increasingly digital, green, and service-oriented economy
• Reskilling and upskilling strategies to address workforce challenges

 

Attendees gained practical insights and ideas on how to create a workplace culture that supports engagement, retention, and employee well-being, which are critical to navigating the industry’s evolving demands.  This session also explored how vocational and higher education institutions, industry partners, and governments can collaborate to deliver flexible, lifelong learning pathways that empower both employees and employers.

 

 

Key takeaways from the session included:

• The latest figures and findings from PANTOUR’s research, including the set-up of National Skills Partnerships, which will shape the future of the workforce in Europe’s tourism and attractions sectors.
• Strategies for addressing the digital and green transition in workforce development.
• A deep dive into CELTH’s approach on Human Capital and the importance of continuous learning for both employers and employees to remain competitive in an ever-changing landscape.

 

This workshop was an excellent opportunity to engagee industry professionals and education professionals in a high-level discussion on human capital strategies, share their experiences, and leave with actionable steps to tackle today’s and tomorrow’s workforce challenges.