From high-flyer to seasoned veteran, João N. Antunes' journey is nothing short of inspiring, with a career trajectory marked by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and an unwavering commitment to personal and professional growth.
Seasoned airport management professional João N. Antunes' journey into aviation took off over two decades ago at the Macao University of Tourism (UTM), where he not only acquired a solid foundation in hotel and tourism management, but also developed his approach to personal and professional growth through diverse cultural experiences.
In 2001, the UTM alumnus completed his studies in Tourism Business Management, earning a bachelor’s degree.
The four years of academic effort João invested set him on a promising path—one that he envisioned and proudly embraced as he seized every rising opportunity to shape a global perspective for himself.
"Practical experience" and "perseverance" were two valuable qualities instilled in João during his internships in Malaysia and Portugal—two of the many destinations about which the travel aficionado was fascinated.
"Tourism was an industry that attracted me then. I was fortunate to have a chance to travel extensively and be related to the tourism industry for a long while," says João, explaining his decision to enroll at a tertiary education institution that offered various internship and global outreach programmes.
Aware of the demands of an industry known for long-hour dedication, João understood the importance of perseverance and commitment.
His dedication has seen him rise through the ranks at Macau International Airport Co. Ltd. to assume the role of Director of the Customer Services Branch.
Currently working hand in hand with over 50 teammates, João has recognised the immense potential and talent of the younger generation of professionals as he reflects on his ascent through his career as an aspiring entry-level communications professional.
In today's fast-paced world, it's essential to stay grounded and “keep your head down,” João advises, saying that a calm frame of mind keeps one on course for personal success.
"Trust the basics and adhere to fundamentals. Don't react too quickly to immediate trends, complaints, or hypes," he added. "Keep an open mind but a steady route because nowadays there's a lot of information available, a lot of ideas. But sometimes their source is not very trustworthy."
João’s words of wisdom are directed at up-and-coming tourism and hospitality students, encouraging them to live up to their worth and strengths.
"I think we often underestimate ourselves," says João, referring to the young talent in Macao as a whole. He drew a parallel to the city itself, which, despite its small size, has been welcoming incremental international visitation.
In his opinion, UTM has long served as a helipad for dream chasers, continuously evolving into an all-round institution that provides them with the resources, guidance, and opportunities needed to take flight and achieve their ambitions in tourism and hospitality.
"UTM graduates do well and are well prepared. They know how to present themselves," João says, referring to the confidence that UTM graduates display. "They have the knowledge and the skills."
In addition to a bachelor's degree, João earned a master’s degree in business administration in 2010 from the Macau Inter-University Institute, now the University of Saint Joseph.
Moreover, the international certification that he obtained from the International Civil Aviation Organization later attests to his drive for further development in civil aviation.
Speaking of lifelong learning, the aviation veteran encourages his younger peers to embrace continuous education as a cornerstone of both personal and professional growth.
"Staying curious and seeking new knowledge are essential for navigating the ever-evolving landscape of any industry," he says.