PHOENIX — The National Association of Career Travel Agents (NACTA) saw a 95% increase in new member growth in 2014 compared with 2013.

NACTA bills itself as the travel industry’s leading national trade association, representing independent contractors, outside sales consultants, cruise and tour oriented consultants and other travel professionals.

This year saw the formation of seven new chapters in some of the most important markets in North America, including eastern Ontario.

“NACTA chapters, under the leadership of Chapter Directors, are an integral part of our success, allowing for local networking on issues and education relevant to the independent travel consultant,” said NACTA President Ann van Leeuwen.

The new Eastern Ontario Chapter is based in Ottawa with co-directors Jerry and Alain Goudreault.

In the U.S., new NACTA chapters have been established in Hawaii, the Delaware Valley (comprising the greater Philadelphia Metro area) and New York City. NACTA has expanded to three chapters in South Florida.

These additions expand the NACTA portfolio of chapters to almost 50 locations in the U.S. and Canada, according to NACTA Vice President of Sales & Industry Relations Bob Duglin. “We’re very proud of each of these local travel professionals and leaders who have stepped up and are serving as a leader of their community within the travel industry,” he said.