Michigan hospitality industry leaders gathered today at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island to celebrate the 37 graduates from the second 2024 cohort of the Hospitality Training Institute of Michigan’s (HTIM) Business Management Course.
The 12-week course taught students key business and leadership skills that will help them step up in their careers in Michigan’s hospitality industry.
“Over the past 12 weeks, these students put in the work to invest in their futures in Michigan’s hospitality industry, and we are incredibly proud of every graduate and thrilled to see how each of them steps up in their careers,” said Amanda Smith, executive director of HTIM.
“As an employer, we feel the HTIM program is extremely impactful in growing and retaining talent throughout the hospitality industry which is one of the top economic drivers in the state of Michigan. With high turnover rates in the industry, HTIM gives employees the tools and pathways to have successful and meaningful careers,” said Liz Ware, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Mission Point Resort. “We are delighted so many Mission Point employees took the initiative on their own to register, complete and graduate from the HTIM program. They saw the opportunity to better themselves, which in turn will strengthen our industry.”
Graduates of the HTIM Business Management Course earned nationally recognized certifications like ServSafe, as well as important trainings covering mental health, sexual harassment, and unconscious bias.
“Being able to take my industry knowledge and pass it on to others is extremely rewarding,” said Matthew Vogel, an instructor for the Mackinac Island class. “Seeing these individuals grow and really lean into their profession is wonderful to watch and I am so proud of them for taking this step to further their career.”
“The HTIM course allowed me to learn more about every facet of Michigan’s hospitality industry and improve my skills and confidence as a leader,” said Phyllis Lockhart, Mission Point Resort Reservations Manager. “I gained invaluable knowledge beyond just core industry principles, and am leaving having made deeper connections with other employees from around my community.”
HTIM’s program piloted in 2023 to 100 students to provide restaurant and hotel workers with the skills needed to advance in their careers. 238 residents graduated statewide from HTIM’s course in quarter one, and quarter two graduations are currently underway. Nearly 360 students are registered for upcoming classes in quarter three, and enrollment is still open. With the support of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, HTIM has expanded this year to reach additional Michiganders looking for a rewarding and high-paying career. The course is being offered at no cost, a $2,500 value, to the first 2,000 registrants, in addition to providing a $500 stipend to every successful graduate.
Michigan’s hospitality industry creates nearly $44.6 billion in annual sales and employs 12.8% of Michigan’s workforce, or nearly half a million residents. As an integral part of Michigan’s economy, the HTIM program provides an avenue for employees to grow and develop, building a stronger workforce here in Michigan.
Interested students and employers are encouraged to register for future classes or find more information about the HTIM Hospitality Business Management course at HTIM.com/stepup.
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