Meet HTIM Graduate: Katie Belland

Employer: Railtown Brewing Co.
Title: General Manager
Date of HTIM course completion: November 2025
Location: Dutton, Michigan

Why did you want to enroll in the HTIM business management course? 
​With a BA in human resources, I started a role as the general manager of a restaurant, and I knew nothing about working in a restaurant as I have spent the last 24 years working in healthcare.

How will this help you step up in your career? 
This is just what I needed to launch my 2nd career!

What advice do you have for others in the hospitality industry who are looking for ways to grow their career? 
Ask questions, seek out people who have had a lot of time in the industry and pick their brain about what works and what doesn't. Remember that people just want to be treated well. You take care of them and they will take care of you. 

What was your favorite part of the HTIM business management course?
I really liked all of it! I love learning about new things--and this was all brand new information for me!

How long have you been working in the industry? 
Not long, since August 2025 so 5 months

Can you share more background on your current role?
I first met the restaurant’s owner through a volunteer group and have been a regular patron of the restaurant for years. Despite my 24 years of experience in the dental field, when he found out I had a BA in human resources, he hired me very part time to do payroll. When he had an opening for the GM position, he called me right away to see if I would be interested. I took a leap of faith and said yes and have loved every second of it!

What was your first job in hospitality? How did you get into this industry? 
This is my 1st hospitality job!

Interesting & fun fact: 
​My family has a goal to get to all 50 states before our son (8th grade) graduates--we just finished #49! 

Learn more about HTIM Hospitality Business Management Course

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