Advisor Spotlight: Katie Kaderabek Earns Her CTA® Certification 🎉
- Denise Lang
- Feb 2
- 4 min read
There are some milestones that deserve a true happy dance — and this is one of them.
We’re thrilled to celebrate that Katie Kaderabek has officially earned her CTA® (Certified Travel Associate) certification through The Travel Institute. This credential reflects a deeper level of industry education, professional development, and commitment to serving travelers with knowledge and heart.
Katie has been part of our Reach for the Magic Destinations team for two years, and from the beginning she’s been the kind of advisor who doesn’t just “learn the basics” — she leans in, asks smart questions, and keeps growing.
“I feel like I am at the point within my travel business that I just wanted more. I have been motivated and super willing to learn, so I figured, WHY NOT.”
What is the CTA® certification?
The CTA® (Certified Travel Associate) certification is a respected professional credential designed to strengthen the skills travel advisors use every day - from communication and client care to planning, problem-solving, and industry knowledge.
But beyond the official definition, here’s what we love most about it:
It’s a signal of real commitment
It builds stronger planning + advocacy skills
It reflects a mindset of ongoing learning (not “I already know everything”)
Katie’s CTA® journey: “a lot of information” — and a lot of growth
Katie’s honesty about the process is one of the reasons clients connect with her. She shared that the biggest challenge was simply the volume of material, especially while navigating ADHD and anxiety.
“Realizing how much material there actually was… Living with ADHD and anxiety, I felt like it was A LOT of information. I was not sure how I would retain the information and the test was incredibly difficult as well.”
And then came the surprise: she did retain it. She did know it. And she did better than she expected.
“I feel like I actually really knew the material… I passed the test with a much better score than I originally thought I would and it kind of surprised me how much this business really means to me!”
That line right there? That’s the moment where you can feel her stepping into a new level of confidence.
What this means for Katie’s clients
This is the part we think matters most: how does this show up in the client experience?
Katie put it simply:
“I have more resources and tools in my back pocket to help better understand client needs, as well as needs of my own. I am constantly learning and joining groups that are exclusive to individuals who have this credential.”
Translation? More tools, more strategies, and more professional community to pull from - which helps her support clients with clarity and care.
“A breath of fresh air” (and what’s next)
Katie set earning her CTA® as a 2025 goal — and achieving it felt like a reset in the best way.
“Honestly, a breath of fresh air. I made this a goal of mine for 2025 and really wanted to make it happen. It feels great to show my clients that I do have the training and knowledge to help them and I can not wait to see where this takes me in the future!”
And next up? Visibility and growth, especially on the marketing side.
“I am so excited to work more on the marketing side of things and actually put myself out there… Being able to have this credential has really helped me blossom and come out of my shell when it comes to marketing and social media!”
What Katie loves most about being a travel advisor
If you’ve ever chatted with Katie, you’ve felt this energy.
“Being able to assist families in creating amazing memories… being able to see families have fun and let loose, really fills my cup!”
She loves helping people experience joy, and then hearing the “we did the thing!” stories afterward.
Katie’s planning specialties (and how her brand is evolving)
Katie began her advisor journey with a strong focus on theme parks - especially Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort - and she’s booked Disney Cruise Line vacation as well.
She also brings a unique and deeply valuable planning lens she’s called “magical accessibility.” With a professional background in special education, knowledge of ASL, and lived experience with ADHD, Katie enjoys supporting travelers who want extra confidence around accessibility, neurodivergence, or travel-day overwhelm.
And here’s the important part: Katie is actively updating her branding to make sure it’s crystal clear that she supports all travelers; not only travelers with accessibility needs. Her accessibility-informed planning is an added strength, not a limitation on who she serves.
She’s also expanded her portfolio to include:
Royal Caribbean International cruises
Beaches Resorts
Lightning Round with Katie ✨
Disney, Universal, or “don’t make me choose”? Please don’t make me choose!
Favorite way to build in rest without missing out? Midday rest breaks (especially in summer), and sometimes adding 1–2 extra days for breathing room.
Dream next research trip? Beaches Turks & Caicos - because I'm a hands-on learner and want to experience it firsthand.
Carry-on only or checked bag peace-of-mind? Checked bag… because I overpack (even for weekend trips).
Ready to plan with Katie?
If you’re dreaming about a theme park vacation, cruise, or all-inclusive getaway - and want an advisor who’s thoughtful, trained, and genuinely in your corner - we’d love to connect you with Katie.
Reach out to start your vacation conversation, and tell us you’d like to work with Katie.
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