Meet HTIM Graduate: Eric Cockream

Employer: Love INC.
Title: Director/Chef
Date of HTIM Course Completion: November 2025
Location: Muskegon, Michigan

​Why did you want to enroll in the HTIM business management course? There are many reasons for my enrollment, a few of the greatest being to continually evolve as a passionate leader in the industry, and to walk alongside our apprentices, as they reach for their goals, dreams and certifications.​

How will this help you step up in your career? 
Surely this will help me step into new roles as they become available, but also helps me lead with excellence today!

What advice do you have for others in the hospitality industry who are looking for ways to grow their career? 
Some of the greatest advice I have for those wanting to grow their careers is never forget your “why!” After all, if it was important enough to begin it’s important you complete what you set out to achieve.

Also, it’s a very demanding industry, and will require a lot, so stay rested, take care of yourself and always be willing to do the hard thing; what others aren’t willing to, even when it seems no one is watching!
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Don’t just exist, instead dominate, keep showing up and continue to excel! Owner, operator, executive chef is your goal!

What was your favorite part of the HTIM business management course?
A few of the most memorable parts of the course for me were the classroom interactions, and hearing from others in the industry. Also, completing what I set out to achieve.

Our instructor added a lot to the program as well, sharing from her plethora of experiences, and stories that were shared with her. She was understanding, and did her best to keep it fun and relevant, while keeping the pressure on.

How long have you been working in the industry? 
My first job at 15 years old was in hospitality, I opened a Papa Romanos Pizzeria. That was approximately 35 years ago, and I’ve been in the industry ever since. 

Can you share more background on your current role?
My current role as director/chef at Love Cafe is quite a unique one. There, I’m responsible for the daily functions of the restaurant along with the budget, events, menu planning and the volunteers who run the front house and of course work closely with our apprentices in the back of house, whom will be with us for an entire year before graduating, and ultimately making a difference in the industry!

Interesting & fun fact: 
​A few fun facts about me.. I love regional  Italian cuisine.  I thoroughly enjoy serving others, and meeting new people. 
 
I cannot stand lukewarm food that is meant to be served hot, and I rarely ever eat leftovers.
 
 I don’t like too much of any one thing, instead I’d rather graze, taking small bites along life’s beautiful path… 
 
I dislike excuses too. Instead, own your stuff and keep it moving.
 
Lastly, I love feeding people two ways! I enjoy a good game of chess, and getting outside, especially fishing/kayaking is one of the greatest resets!

Learn more about HTIM Hospitality Business Management Course

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