Convention Sales Professionals International (CSPI), an association dedicated to enhancing the collaboration and partnership between sales professionals of convention centers and destination marketing organizations (DMOs), has announced the launch of an internship program that will help to ensure the success of the next generation.
Launching at Temple University in Philadelphia, Pa., the CSPI internship program will help expose students seeking a hospitality degree who have a special interest in sales and marketing to real-world situations. By mentoring students, DMO and convention center sales professionals will help their future peers and collaborators start out on the right path while also benefitting from increased man-power and an expanded team.
“We’re excited to be the first university to work with CSPI to help prepare the future leaders of this industry,” said Greg DeShields, managing director of business development, Temple University Fox School of Business. “I have no doubt that the Temple participants will gain a valuable experience and will also prove to be a vital asset to the CSPI member organizations in return.”
This is the first formal internship program ever sponsored by the association. CSPI plans to expand the program into other colleges, universities, DMOs and convention centers across the country based on member interest and the success of the Temple program.
“A classroom setting can only provide so much,” said Cathy Keller, president, CSPI. “This internship program gives students invaluable first-hand knowledge and the ability to learn through trial and error. I commend the CSPI members who made this program happen … we all hope to bring the spirit of collaboration and partnership even further into the 21st century.”
