Meet HTIM Graduate: Nina Nelson

Employer: Air Zoo
Title: Education and Group Sales Coordinator 
Date of HTIM Course Completion: November 2025
Location: Kalamazoo, Michigan

Why did you want to enroll in the HTIM business management course? I had both personal and professional motivations for enrolling in the HTIM Business Management course. On a personal level, I wanted to better support my husband as he takes steps to open his restaurant, The Rolling Plug, LLC. While I do not have prior restaurant experience, I wanted to build foundational knowledge to be a meaningful resource to him throughout his entrepreneurial journey.

Why did you want to enroll in the HTIM Business Management course?
I had both personal and professional motivations for enrolling in the HTIM Business Management course. On a personal level, I wanted to better support my husband as he takes steps to open his restaurant, The Rolling Plug, LLC. While I do not have prior restaurant experience, I wanted to build foundational knowledge to be a meaningful resource to him throughout his entrepreneurial journey.

Professionally, outside of my full-time role, I have completed a soft launch of my own business, Nina Nelson Services, where I support clients with administrative services, strategic planning, and event planning. The hospitality knowledge gained through this course—particularly in food safety, service standards, and guest experience—allows me to ensure my clients receive not only exceptional events but also safe, well-executed ones.

This learning also directly supports my role at the Air Zoo. We host a wide range of events and being equipped to support the event team while ensuring guest safety and high service standards created a true full-circle moment for me through this program.

How will this help you step up in your career?
This program significantly strengthened my leadership skills. In my role, I collaborate across multiple departments and often lead the coordination of teams to support events and educational programming. Having this additional knowledge builds trust with my colleagues and leadership, as it reinforces that I am equipped to support students, schools, and business clients while upholding event policies, procedures, and safety standards.

What advice do you have for others in the hospitality industry who are looking to grow their career?
Continue to learn and stay connected to your community. The hospitality industry is constantly evolving, and growth requires a commitment to ongoing education, relationship-building, and adaptability.

What was your favorite part of the HTIM Business Management course?
My favorite part of the course was the dialogue and learning from my classmates’ perspectives. I was surrounded by individuals who were already leaders or actively stepping into leadership roles, which made the conversations both insightful and motivating.
 
How long have you been working in the industry?
I have over 14 years of experience in customer service, with more than 4 years specifically in the hospitality industry.

Can you share more background on your current role?
My primary role is Education and Group Sales Coordinator at the Air Zoo. In this capacity, I coordinate education outreach programs, field trips, adult programs, group visits, scout programs, and support birthday parties and camp registrations. I also hold additional roles in addition to my primary position.

What was your first job in hospitality? How did you get into this industry?
My first hospitality role was as a Concierge at the Radisson. I was seeking an additional job at the time, and the position stood out because it allowed me to connect with people from all over the world. I was eager to learn more about hospitality and how those skills could translate across my career. It was an incredible experience supported by strong leadership that truly modeled what hospitality should look like—skills I continue to use daily in both my professional role and with my clients.

Interesting & fun fact: 
An interesting fact about me is that I enjoy painting and am currently learning how to crochet.

Anything else you’d like to share?
This was an amazing program, do it. If you ever reach a point where you question whether to continue, keep going. You will not regret it.

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