Unfortunately, this undeniably lucrative industry is passing many people of color by.  African, Latin, Asian and Native Americans while making up a significant percentage of front line or entry level positions, are grossly underrepresented in the mid-to-upper echelons of the hospitality and travel industry.  This probably comes as no surprise, but the good news is that opportunities literally abound in this industry.  For those searching for fast career tracks the sky is literally the limit. 

Taking advantage of those opportunities, however, may require a mindshift .  Most of us tend to equate jobs in hospitality with minimum wage, service jobs.  Housekeepers, bellmen, bartenders.  All true.  These are the front line positions on which the rest of the industry is built.  But there is so much more!  Consider if you will an entry level employee that climbs the corporate ladder to become the first African American female regional manager of a major hotel chain.  It happened to Valerie Ferguson who is also the current president  of the American Hotel Motel Association.  Countless others are following in her footsteps, moving into upper management in sales, services and administration.  Make no mistake, hospitality is a major industry with major opportunities. 

Of course, hard work is required.  Odd and long hours, countless deadlines and daily change are the hallmarks of an industry where customer service is always #1.  The benefits?  Travel, excitement, opportunities to meet people from different cultures, hospitable surroundings and financial rewards are but some of the many advantages to working in hospitality and tourism. 

Best of all, a career path in hospitality and tourism does not require an advanced degree.  Most degree programs in Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism (HRT) Management are only beginning to take off.  As in any field, a degree always helps, but experience is what drives this career engine and therefore anyone can take advantage of the opportunities available for training and advancement.  The jobs have been posted and the ad reads:  Calling all liberal arts, business, accounting and fine arts majors your expertise is required.  Must have a friendly disposition, determination, motivation and a drive to succeed.  Opportunities for advancement abound the sky is the limit!