AMERICAN HOTEL & LODGING EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

Created by a group of forward-thinking hoteliers in 1953 as the charitable, not-for-profit affiliate of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), the Foundation’s mission is to help people build careers that improve their lives and strengthen the lodging industry.

Hotels are a major economic driver in the U.S., supporting 8 million jobs and $355 billion in labor income. The lodging industry offers upward mobility and exciting lifelong careers, as well as a fast track to management positions. According to a recent survey, more than 50% of hotel general managers and department managers began their hotel careers in hourly, entry-level positions.

To accomplish its mission, AHLEF has launched three projects to address the industry need and build strong careers. Since AHLA is the certifying body for the hospitality industry, this work is being supported by AHLA’s portfolio of industry-recognized certifications managed by our partners at AHLEI.

Workforce boards play an integral role in supporting the lodging industry – from pre-employment training services leading to industry certifications, to fiscally supporting the industry’s managerial apprenticeship program available to new hires and incumbent workers. The lodging industry is one of vibrant career pathways, with over 250 occupations available to individuals with varied skills. AHLEF looks forward to working with each WIB to help build the talent pipeline for the hotel & lodging sector.

Contact: Shelly Weir, Senior Vice President of Career Development, AHLEF