Many of us are likely familiar with the frequently touted (and research-proven) positive effects of travel on our work performance, relationships and personal well-being.
But, with all the national conversation about creating and keeping good American jobs, how much thought do we give to travel’s economic power in our lives?
It certainly deserves our attention. Travel is a top-10 employer in 49 states and the District of Columbia. The industry played a major role in America’s economic recovery post-recession—and now, travel is our country’s number one service export, accounting for 11.2 percent of all U.S. exports in 2016. The U.S. travel industry, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, has recovered far faster than other economic sectors since 2008. Spending by travelers everywhere in the U.S., which currently totals over $947 billion annually, supports 15.3 million American jobs. That’s one in nine Americans whose employment depends upon plenty of travelers moving to and within the U.S.
In New York’s 27th congressional district alone, which houses parts of Ontario County, 14,257 jobs are in the tourism sector and tourism contributes $1.9 billion in economic activity.
Our industry is one that relies on human interaction—whether it’s the front desk clerk at a hotel, the tour guide in a historic district, or the ticketing agent at an airport, our people are what make America a great place to visit, and keep our industry strong. That’s why, as part of National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) 2017, May 7-13, our industry is shining the spotlight on the people behind our nation’s travel industry with this year’s theme—“Faces of Travel”—and highlighting the need to craft smart, travel-friendly government policies that keep their jobs flourishing.
As one of 14 counties that make up the Finger Lakes region, Ontario County is situated in the heart of Western, New York. Our county has wineries, breweries, restaurants, hotels, winter activities, water activities and so much more. And without the fine people of the tourism industry, none of it would be possible.
We encourage you to join us in our NTTW celebration. Here are a few ways to get involved:
- Contact your member of Congress and tell them about why travel is important.
- Get social and engage with the #nttw17 hashtag on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
This year’s NTTW is more than just another campaign. It’s a movement that positions the travel industry as a primary driver in the U.S. economy and an important part of our daily lives.
