Meet participating employer, Mission Point

Employer: Mission Point Resort
Location: Mackinac Island, Michigan 
Name and title: Leah Anderson, Senior Marketing & Content Manager  

As an employer, what benefits do you see for your employees completing the HTIM business management course? Employees who complete the HTIM Business Management Course gain a deeper understanding of how hospitality operations, leadership, and financial decisions all connect. On Mackinac Island, where teamwork and adaptability are essential, this knowledge builds confidence, strengthens leadership presence, and prepares employees to grow into year-round and seasonal leadership roles.

Can you share more about your business? 
We are a seasonal resort on the sunrise side of Mackinac Island. Poised on18 acres overlooking the water’s edge, Mission Point attracts travelers craving to reconnect with themselves, their passions and their surroundings through thoughtfully curated experiences, a connection to nature, and locally inspired cuisine. We are a family-owned and operated resort; Mission Point celebrated 10 years of Ware Family ownership in 2024.

How does your business benefit from employees completing the course? 
For Mission Point Resort, investing in professional development creates leaders who understand the bigger picture of resort operations, guest experience, and teamwork across departments. This leads to more consistent service, stronger collaboration, and a leadership team that can adapt to the unique rhythm and seasonality of island hospitality. Forty-six of our team members have graduated from the HTIM program. 
 
What are your thoughts on the training on location option for employees? 
Training-on- location options are great; we have most of our staff take the course right on the island, but a few remote employees were able to take a class in their city.
 
What advice do you have for others in the hospitality industry who are looking for ways to step up in their career? 
On Mackinac Island, stepping up often means being willing to learn beyond your job description and jumping in where needed. Be proactive, dependable, and curious about how the resort operates. Investing in education and leadership skills — even during a busy season — helps set you apart and opens doors for long-term growth.

What advice do you have for other hospitality businesses who want to help employees improve their skills? 
Hospitality businesses thrive when they invest in their people. Providing access to training, mentorship, and education — especially in a seasonal environment — helps employees feel valued and supported. When teams grow their skills, they deliver better guest experiences and return season after season, strengthening both culture and performance.​

​Ready to bring our course to your business?
Give your employees new skills and knowledge by having HTIM present the 12-week course on-site at your business, with a curriculum customized for your unique operation.

Learn more about on-site training