TPDCo’s Approach to Human Resource Development
Professional service is fundamental to successful tourism development, and  human resource development is one of TPDCo's highest priorities. Through its flagship Team Jamaica  programme, the company offers compulsory training to sector workers. The programme focusses on product knowledge, customer service, Jamaica's history and geography, and personal development. It aims to instil in its participants, a sense of pride in self and country. In addition, a wide range of skills training and skills upgrading courses are available through the Human Resource Department in an attempt to meet the needs of the industry.  (See Training Courses).


Benefits of Training
The benefits of training in the sector are far-reaching and represent a solid investment in social and economic development. Persons exposed to training develop more confidence that improves delivery of service, and to manage their own businesses. Other advantages include:

• Increased opportunity for employment
  
  
• Certified participants are better qualified to provide services to the tourism sector and have easier access to the tourism workforce. Tour guiding, security awareness and villa care, are some examples.
  
  
• Certified participants have access to operate their own transportation service in the tourism sector.
  
  
• Hospitality students in tertiary institutions are better prepared for the workforce.
  
  

      *  Teachers have been trained in tourism related training skills and are now more aware and   competent to deal with tourism related topics and personnel.


Infomania
The Tourism Infomania is another strategy used to enhance product knowledge for employees within the industry. This is annual quiz competition that is open to employees from hotels, attractions, tour companies, and other industry entities. The programme involves brainstorming on tourism related issues inclusive of laws, operational procedures at hotels, attractions,  transport, among others.

Infomania involves teams of no more than five (5) persons competing in a question and answer series. Attractive prizes and public acknowledgement are given to both winners and coach. It includes trips, financial reward and trophies.