THE INSPIRATION FOR ITMI
TED BRAVOS, FOUNDER & CEO OF ITMI
Ted is an industry pioneer, thought leader and visionary. He helped develop the first state-approved school in the United States, designed specifically to train tour directors and tour guides. When he is not filling his role as primary instructor, he remains active as a tour director, leading thousands of people to all parts of the world.
After obtaining a Bachelor of Science Degree from California Polytechnic University, he served as a Captain in the U.S. Marine Corps.
Since 1970, he has been employed as a tour director and consultant for some of the most respected tour companies in America. A distinguished thought leader and expert, he has been a frequent speaker at industry events, featured in many magazines and newspapers and been a guest on countless television and radio programs.
ITMI LEADING THE WAY SINCE 1976
At the time of ITMI’s inception, tour guiding in America was largely a part-time summer job for college students or teachers who had little or no training. In Europe, tour guiding had already developed as a profession with a formal education and certification, meeting the highest standards of quality.
As seasoned travellers, Ted Bravos and Bill Newton observed the vast difference between the two industries and envisioned the concept for the International Tour Management Institute (ITMI): A North American school that would give tour guides and tour directors the knowledge, practical skills and real-world experience to safely and confidently lead tour groups domestically and around the world.
ITMI was born. Over the years, ITMI has evolved to meet the changing needs of the explosive tourism industry. ITMI continues to be actively involved with leading professional organizations including the National Tour Association (NTA), the American Bus Association (ABA) and Tourism Cares.
First School in North America to Train Tour Guides and Tour Directors
The School is in Session
First Hollywood Class
ITMI Continues to Expand
First ITMI Symposium
ITMI Celebrates Its 100th Class
ITMI Is Invited to Present at White House Conference
ITMI Goes From Hot to Cold
ITMI Hits Some MIlestones
ITMI Celebrates 7,000 Graduates
Motorcoach Driver Training Program
ITMI Holds its 25th Symposium
ITMI Receives International Recognition
ITMI Celebrates 40 Years
ITMI - STILL INNOVATING SINCE 1976
ITMI - STILL INNOVATING SINCE 1976
As Featured On
TOUR GUIDE PROGRAM TESTIMONIALS
Don’t just take our word for it.
One of the best decisions I've ever made. Investing in training at ITMI changed my life and gave me access to a career that is challenging me and bring me a whole lot of joy! THANK YOU ITMI!!
Thank you so much to ITMI because without this training I wouldn't be able to unlock the doors to my dreams. The greatest thing ITMI did was to create this community of people like me, who share a love of travel, culture, history and adventures.
Celebrating 1 year anniversary from ITMI! In the past year I was a tour director through the Western National Parks and today I'm heading on a plane for my first tour in Europe. Thank you ITMI!
