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LANSING, Mich. – Michigan hospitality industry leaders and elected officials gathered today to celebrate 238 residents from around the state who have graduated from the first 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. “Every student graduating today from the hospitality business management course has worked hard to build their skills to be able further their careers in Michigan’s hospitality industry,” said Amanda Smith, executive director of HTIM. “We’re so proud of the work that our students, instructors, and partners have put into the course, and are excited to welcome more students in the next cohort.”
Below is a breakdown of graduates from across the state:
“As we emerge from the challenges brought about by the pandemic, it is crucial now more than ever to invest in the growth and development of our hospitality industry workforce,” said Jeff Lobdell, president of Restaurant Partners Management, LLC, and chairman of the National Restaurant Association. “Congratulations to each and every graduate from this cohort of HTIM’s program. Together, we are building a stronger, more vibrant hospitality workforce that will drive Michigan's economic growth and prosperity for years to come.” 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. “Today, we are looking at the future of Michigan’s hospitality industry with a renewed sense of excitement. As an employer in our industry, I am thrilled to see so many future leaders stepping up to hone their skillsets,” said Sue Damron, president and CEO of Schuler's Restaurant & Pub and member of the HTIM board of directors. “Programs like the Hospitality Business Management training course ensure that mentorships, skill building and opened doors remain a part our industry.” HTIM’s program was piloted in 2023 to 100 students to provide restaurant and hotel workers with the skills needed to advance in their careers. 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, and is offering the course at no cost, a $2,500 value, to the first 2,000 registrants, in addition to providing a $500 stipend to every successful graduate. “As someone who has worked in Michigan’s hospitality industry for more than 10 years, HTIM’s program was offered at the perfect time for me to gain new certifications and learn new skills to help me lead my team,” said Bryan Ponke, general manager of HopCat East Lansing. “I am honored to be a part of this cohort of amazing hospitality leaders from all around Michigan, and I can’t wait to see how each of us step up in the industry to keep our state moving forward” Michigan’s hospitality industry creates nearly $44.6 billion in annual sales and employs 12.8% of Michigan’s workforce, or more than 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. Photos from the event can be found here. ### About the Hospitality Training Institute of Michigan The Hospitality Training Institute of Michigan (HTIM) provides individuals with the quality training to advance their skill sets, grow operational knowledge, and expand attributes necessary for advanced careers in the hospitality industry. Learn more at HTIM.com. Media Contacts: Katie Jesaitis 269-808-2945 Comments are closed.
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