Where Do We Go From Here?

Abstract

The challenge for preparing students to enter the demanding world of the hospitality industry becomes more complex and more exciting each day. Opportunities abound for the dedicated and prepared individual to make a significant contribution to the future of the industry. The prepared individual needs to have an awareness of the state of the industry as it exists today, some of the fundamental changes which are taking place that effect the industry, indications for future directions for the industry, and a commitment to facing the challenges and the opportunities for the improvement of the industry, and its service to its guests.

Educators who prepare the students for entry into the hospitality industry must make themselves aware of these same factors, and must be innovative in presenting programs which will prepare the students for the future. A significant challenge arises in establishing and maintaining rapport with the industry's leaders, in discerning directions and trends which must be addressed in curriculum development. An awareness of the state of the industry is mandatory, and some soul-searching may be indicated by some of our educational institutions toward making their programs more realistic. of particular concern is the low level of time and study spent in developing the “people skills” for the students, in preparing them for working with humans who are less than textbook perfect.

Realistic expectations of entry levels and future promotional opportunities must be addressed. One does not start at the top, nor even in the middle of an organization. Solid experiences from “the trenches” coupled with an updated and realistic formal education can pay rich dividends.

CHRIE faces an unprecedented opportunity for making significant strides in preparing students and the industry for the future. With an informed and dedicated program, this objective can well be met.