Emma Rhoades: Tourism Careers, Networking and Navigating Workforce Challenges
Episode Description
In this episode of Tourism Matters, join Carmen Bold as she chats with Emma Rhoades about her career journey and her current work supporting tourism businesses through workforce development at the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC).
Emma reflects on returning to university later in life, re-entering the workforce after raising children, and finding her place in the tourism industry. The conversation explores workforce challenges across tourism, the importance of networking and building relationships, and practical advice for people looking to start or grow their careers in the industry.
What you'll take away from this episode
• Why networking is one of the most powerful tools for building a tourism career
• How career paths in tourism often evolve through unexpected opportunities
• The workforce challenges facing tourism operators today
• Why passion and persistence matter when building a career in tourism
• Practical advice for job seekers looking to enter the tourism industry
• How industry organisations are supporting tourism operators and employees
About Emma
Emma Rhoades works as a workforce advisor with QTIC, supporting tourism businesses across Queensland with workforce development, industry challenges and career pathways.
Her career journey includes returning to university later in life and re-entering the workforce after raising children. Emma is passionate about helping people navigate careers in tourism and connecting industry operators with the support they need.
The Industry Workforce Advisor Program is supported and funded by the Queensland Government.
Organisations and industry references mentioned
Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) https://www.qtic.com.au
Accor Heartist Ethos: https://group.accor.com/en/group/people-at-our-heart/our-heartist-ethos
Episode Chapters
00:00 Introduction and early career aspirations
03:00 Education and early career interests
06:00 Working at Telstra and stepping away for motherhood
08:00 Returning to university and rediscovering career direction
11:00 Navigating career transitions and self-reflection
13:00 Connecting with the tourism industry
19:00 Emma’s role at QTIC and workforce support
22:00 Workforce challenges across the tourism industry
26:00 Promoting tourism careers and industry opportunities
29:00 Advice for job seekers entering tourism
34:00 Networking strategies and building relationships
39:00 Final reflections and support for tourism professionals