Greg DeShields is a nationally respected tourism industry executive, certified hospitality educator, consultant, and nonprofit leader with more than 30 years of experience across tourism, hospitality, education, and nonprofit sectors. He is recognized for advancing inclusive workforce development, destination growth, and strategic partnerships that connect education with industry practice. His work supports long-term workforce readiness and professional development across the global hospitality ecosystem. He focuses on building sustainable talent pipelines and strengthening collaboration among academia, industry, and community stakeholders.

Industry Experience and Leadership Scope

Greg has over three decades of experience in tourism and hospitality leadership, with a focus on workforce development, destination strategy, and organizational partnerships. He has built programs that align education with industry needs and support sustainable growth in the hospitality sector. His work emphasizes practical solutions, collaboration, and long-term capacity building across tourism organizations and communities. He continues to support initiatives that strengthen industry readiness and professional pathways.

Consulting Practice and Strategic Advisory Work

DeShields serves as Founder and Principal of his consulting practice, Greg DeShields Consulting LLC (GDC), providing strategic advisory services focused on workforce development, tourism education, destination engagement, organizational leadership, and industry partnerships. Through this work, he connects education, industry, and community stakeholders while supporting sustainable talent pipelines. His consulting approach emphasizes collaboration, implementation, and capacity building for tourism and hospitality clients. He also helps organizations improve workforce alignment and long-term growth strategies.

Client Partnerships and Workforce Development Initiatives

Gregory L. DeShields has collaborated with organizations including the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals and the Marriott-Sorenson Center for Hospitality Leadership at Howard University. He has contributed to curriculum development, workforce training initiatives, and experiential learning opportunities for students and emerging professionals. His work bridges academia and industry, strengthens mentorship structures, and improves workforce readiness through structured engagement and development programs. He also supports efforts to expand access to careers in industry.

Skål Philadelphia Leadership and Regional Impact

Greg serves as President of Skål Philadelphia, leading one of the region’s global tourism organizations. He is in his second term, focusing on membership growth, leadership development, sustainability, industry engagement, and strengthening Philadelphia’s role within the global Skål network. His leadership promotes collaboration among tourism and business professionals and supports regional advancement through partnerships and structured engagement initiatives.

Sustainability, Media, and Thought Leadership Engagement

DeShields serves on the Skål International Tourism Sustainability Committee, supporting responsible tourism, environmental stewardship, and sustainable destination practices across the travel industry. He also participates in Young Skål and Project Future, connecting students and emerging professionals with industry leaders through mentorship and education. In addition, he hosts a podcast focused on leadership and growth and serves as a DisruptHR presenter, sharing insights on workforce trends and organizational change. His speaking encourages inclusive leadership and the evolution of career pathways.

Education and Professional Development Background

Greg DeShields holds an Associate of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management and a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island. He is also a graduate of leadership programs, including the Urban League of Philadelphia Leadership Forum, Leadership Philadelphia, and the Greater Philadelphia Leadership Exchange. His academic and professional development reflect a long-standing commitment to education, mentorship, and strengthening the hospitality workforce through continuous learning and leadership development.

Skål Washington DC 70th Anniversary & Supplier Diversity Resources

Here is a recently released article [https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1539265-september-october-2025/26], a podcast program “Alive Prompt” program [https://www.youtube.com/live/gJLbD_zQPOk] a group shot attending Skal Washington DC 70th Anniversary:

As a proud member of Skål Philadelphia (joined by chapter President Mariska K. Bogle and board member Devon Johnston) – Congratulations Skål International Greater Washington, D.C. celebrating your 70th Anniversary and delicious Lobster Fest and Fundraiser. The venue was amazing at Columbia Island Marina George Washington Memorial Pkwy in Arlington, Virginia. It was great to spend time with Skål International Official Vice President 2025 & President Elect 2026 Andres Omar Hayes.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6yzpHU0mVes

Supplier Diversity Business Rationale
https://youtu.be/cG9SjLQ2syc

Supplier Diversity Direct and Indirect Economic Benefits
https://youtu.be/LFllCUnl1v4

Supplier Diversity Job Creation and Community Development
https://youtu.be/R3LHJLLKAtc

Supplier Diversity Words Banned or Flagged by Federal Agencies
https://youtu.be/zOds9LahVxM

Supplier Diversity Future Trends and Opportunities
https://youtu.be/KdIxjNCxSXk

More about Greg Deshields

Skål International Philadelphia Re-Elects Greg DeShields as President

Black Meetings & Tourism Magazine Features Greg DeShield’s Bridging Academia and Industry Project

AI in Careers: Shaping the Future of Work and Skills

The Evolution Continues: Reflections from the Next Generation of Hospitality Leaders

The Hoinser Media Group Award Video

Greg DeShields on the Career Comeback