Meet HTIM Graduate: Sammie Lukaskiewicz

Employer: Manistee County Tourism Authority
Title: Executive Director
Date of HTIM course completion: April 2025
Location: Manistee County, Michigan

​Why did you want to enroll in the HTIM business management course? 
I took the course to better understand all aspects of the hospitality industry, particularly the restaurant industry. 

How will this help you step up in your career? 
It has certainly made me more aware of the challenges and opportunities that exist in hospitality in Michigan and in my community, giving me a better appreciation of the things we, as guests and residents, don’t see. The owners and teams at lodging properties and restaurants, all attractions in Michigan, work hard all year long. 

What advice do you have for others in the hospitality industry who are looking for ways to grow their career? 
If you want to go into hospitality, start by taking the HTIM class and that can help you with career exploration. There are great opportunities in hotels and restaurants, and the class will give you a better understanding on what you will be face with and what expectations for success are. 

What was your favorite part of the HTIM business management course? 
I really loved my instructor, Joe, and my classmates. We came together from across West Michigan from various backgrounds. 

How long have you been working in the industry? 
I’ve worked for a destination marketing organization for three years, but worked at a resort for a little more than two prior to that, and a tourism attraction for 16 years prior to that. I’ve been in hospitality for most of my working career in some fashion. 

Can you share more background on your current role? 
I am the executive director for Manistee Tourism, a destination marketing organization. My job is to promote Manistee County as a tourist destination year-round. 

What was your first job in hospitality? How did you get into this industry? 
My first job in Michigan was as a marketing and communications professional at a tourist attraction. Like most careers, it evolved over time into what I do now. And I’ve been fortunate to work in several places to find a career and in a place that I really love — doing what I love. 

Interesting & fun fact: 
I’ve lived and vacationed all over the world, where you see varying degrees of hospitality. The most amazing place with the most wonderful hospitality I've ever seen was in South Africa, where everyone I met was pleasant and accommodating. It was such a wonderful experience that I went there five times, each time better than the last. 

Learn more about HTIM Hospitality Business Management Course

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