With increasing leisure time and personal
income, many people have more resources for
eating out, travel, and recreation. Career options in
the area of hospitality and tourism focus on food
and beverage services, lodging services, travel, and
all types of recreation. Those who work in this
industry must have exceptional customer-service
skills. They like demanding and diverse work.
These workers must also have a solid foundation
in math, science, and technical skills.
Chefs prepare and serve food with the
help of cooks, servers, and hosts. Lodging
managers—with the help of reservationists,
bellhops, housekeepers, and front-desk clerks—
check guests in and out, meet all their needs,
and keep the hotel clean. Travel agents need
strong organizational skills and sales abilities
to help people plan trips and make lodging and
travel reservations. Recreation workers help
guests enjoy amusement parks, museums, zoos,
unfamiliar cities, and other recreation services.
Many jobs in hospitality and tourism require
no specific education. Workers—such as front-
desk clerks, housekeepers, and cooks—often
receive on-the-job training. However, managers of
large resorts, hotels, restaurants, and amusement
parks usually complete a four-year college degree.
Managers may also have advanced training and
certifications. People can acquire education and
training at high schools, technical institutes, and
two-year or four-year colleges and universities.
The job outlook for hospitality and tourism careers
remains steady. Wages may vary greatly depending on
the area of the country and type of facility.
268