Hospitality and event management is a field that involves planning, organizing, and coordinating events and experiences for guests in various settings such as hotels, restaurants, resorts, and other hospitality establishments.

This field requires professionals to have strong communication skills, attention to detail, creativity, problem-solving abilities, and the ability to work under pressure. Hospitality and event managers are responsible for ensuring that guests have a positive experience by overseeing all aspects of an event or hospitality operation.

Some of the key responsibilities in hospitality and event management include:

- Planning and coordinating events such as weddings, conferences, trade shows, corporate meetings, parties, etc.

- Managing budgets and financial aspects of events

- Negotiating contracts with vendors and suppliers

- Overseeing staff involved in the event or hospitality operation

- Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations

- Providing excellent customer service

To be successful in this field, individuals may pursue formal education in hospitality management or related fields. Practical experience through internships or entry-level positions can also provide valuable skills needed for a career in hospitality and event management. With the growing demand for unique experiences and events across various industries today, there are many opportunities available for professionals with expertise in this area.

As summer kicks into high gear, many of you may be thinking about taking a much-needed break from your routine to make some time for rest and relaxation. According to a recent study by the global accommodations search platform Trivago (Wallis, 2023), 77% of consumers across the US won’t let the possibility of a recession or high rising prices interfere with their plans and are scheduling their well-deserved getaway. The Trivago study (Wallis, 2023) also found that 73% of U.S. vacationers were likely to take a ‘staycation,’ meaning they would be staying closer to home, because of rising costs. The study revealed that some travelers would be willing to alter their spending to afford a vacation and found that two-fifths (40%) would stop buying new clothes for six months, 38% would use public transportation or walk to work instead of driving a car and 35% would give up their daily cup of coffee for the year (2023).

Considering that travel is a global economic driver and job creator, this may be just the right time to consider your next career move. According to the US Travel Association (2024) 1 in every 10 jobs in the travel and tourism industry, which includes lodging and food services, accounts for 8 million direct jobs and supports 15 million jobs total. Additionally, the U.S. Travel Association (2024) states that travel spending generated nearly $160 billion in total tax revenue in 2022, adding $84 billion to state and local treasuries which helps our communities fund police, firefighters, teachers, road improvements and community revitalization projects.

Some of the benefits of working in the hospitality and tourism industry include using your transferable skills in a rewarding career with opportunities for travel and advancement (Indeed, 2024). Among the top perks working in this industry are eligibility for discounted or free services for you and your family, the possibility of advancement and relocation to global areas, and tips from happy guests (Indeed, 2024).

Are you ready to share your passion for helping others fulfill their travel dreams, support your local community through economic development and find a satisfying workplace?  Check out the School of Business and IT (SBIT) concentrations in Hospitality and Tourism Services at the Associates level or Hospitality Sustainability at the Bachelor’s level. You can also reach out to course leads, Mimi Gough at mgough@purdueglobal.edu or Julie Dort at jdort@purdueglobal.edu

References: 

Indeed (2024) Indeed editorial team article on hospitality.

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/working-in-hotel-pros-and-cons

US Travel Association (2024) US travel association website.  https://www.ustravel.org/issues/state-workforce

Wallis, G. (2023) Hotel Business. Study: U.S. consumers define vacation as ‘essential’ https://hotelbusiness.com/study-u-s-consumers-define-vacation-as-essential/