Keynote Speaking

AI Keynote Speaking for Tourism Events

Your audience has heard the hype about AI. They’ve seen the headlines, the breathless predictions, the conflicting advice. What they need now isn’t more hype—it’s clarity. What does AI actually mean for tourism? Where should they focus their limited time and resources? How do they get started without wasting money on tools that don’t deliver?
Peter Pilarski delivers keynotes and workshops that cut through the noise. No jargon, no fear-mongering, no pie-in-the-sky promises—just practical strategies your audience can implement the moment they get back to their offices.

Why Book Peter for Your Tourism Event

Peter Front Standing
Peter brings a unique combination of expertise to every presentation:

20 years in digital marketing and communications —he understands the real work of marketing

Deep tourism industry experience —he speaks your language and understands your challenges

50+ podcast episodes with AI leaders —conversations with experts from OpenAI, Google Travel, and leading destinations

Hands-on AI practitioner —he uses these tools daily and knows what actually works

NVIDIA Connect Program member —connected to the cutting edge of AI development

Most importantly, Peter makes AI accessible. Your audience won’t leave confused or overwhelmed—they’ll leave energized and equipped with specific actions they can take.

Speaking Topics & Formats

AI in Tourism: What's Real, What's Hype, and What's Next

A grounded look at how AI is actually being used in tourism today—and where it’s headed. This presentation separates genuine opportunity from vendor hype, helping your audience focus on what matters. Perfect for audiences who are curious but skeptical, or overwhelmed by conflicting information about AI.

Format: 30-60 minute keynote | Best for: General tourism audiences, industry conferences

The AI-Ready DMO: Building Your Organization's AI Strategy

A deep-dive into what it takes to implement AI at the organizational level. This presentation covers AI literacy and education, governance and ethics, tool selection frameworks, and change management strategies. Ideal for association events, destination marketing conferences, and leadership retreats.

Format: 45-90 minute keynote with optional workshop extension | Best for: DMO leaders, association events

Hands-On AI for Tourism Marketers

Interactive workshop where participants actually use AI tools during the session. Attendees will leave with templates, prompt libraries, and workflows they can apply immediately to their content creation, social media, and campaign planning. Requires laptops or devices for participants.

Format: 2-4 hour workshop | Best for: Marketing teams, hands-on training events

AI for Your Board: What Tourism Leaders Need to Know

Executive briefing designed for board members and senior leadership who need to understand AI’s strategic implications without getting lost in technical details. Covers governance considerations, competitive dynamics, and the questions boards should be asking about AI.

Format: 30-60 minute executive session | Best for: Board meetings, executive retreats

Custom Presentations

Have a specific topic or angle in mind? Peter can develop custom presentations tailored to your event theme, audience level, and objectives. Recent custom topics have included AI ethics in tourism marketing, generative engine optimization for destinations, and AI-powered personalization for visitor experiences.  

Recent & Upcoming Speaking Engagements

  • Tourism Industry Association of New Brunswick — Tourism Summit Keynote
  • Tourism Industry Association of BC — Partnership keynote and member training
  • Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association — AI Adoption Framework training
  • Tourism Saskatchewan — Provincial AI literacy training series
  • Community Futures BC — Organization-wide AI training program (34 offices)
Destination Wide Tourism In

What Event Organizers Say

Frequently Asked Questions About Speaking

Speaking fees vary based on format, travel requirements, and customization needs. Contact us for a quote based on your specific event.

Yes. Peter has delivered numerous virtual keynotes and workshops with full engagement and interactivity. Virtual presentations can be just as impactful as in-person events when done right.

Absolutely. Every presentation is tailored to your audience, objectives, and event theme. Peter conducts a pre-event call to understand your needs and customizes content accordingly.

For keynotes: standard conference AV (screen, projector, microphone, laptop connection). For hands-on workshops: participants need laptops/devices and WiFi access. Detailed technical requirements are provided after booking.

Book Peter for Your Event

Interested in having Peter speak at your conference, association event, or board meeting? Let’s discuss your audience, objectives, and how we can create maximum impact for your attendees.

Ready to discuss speaking and training for your event?