Higher education
For those who complete one of the hospitality industry A.A.S. degrees, Parkland has articulation agreements with outstanding four-year hospitality schools. Students considering higher education should consult the program director.

Employment opportunities
Worldwide, more people work in hospitality and tourism than in any other field. Lodging management opportunities include luxury, convention, all-suite, mid-scale and budget hotels; motels, resorts, and bed and breakfast operations; conference centers, casino hotels, and cruise ships.

Job outlook
The hotel industry is expanding globally and needs qualified management candidates. Working for major hotel companies such as Marriott or Radisson can lead to national and international experience. There is also tremendous demand for managers locally and throughout the Midwest. Hotel opportunities for women and minorities are outstanding. Parkland graduates have achieved excellent placement and promotion.

Earning potential
Assistant or department-level positions pay from $18,000 to $24,000. Limited-service hotel managers in central Illinois earn from $25,000 to $32,000, while total compensation at larger hotels can exceed $50,000. Managers of full-service or resort hotels in major markets who have held executive positions for ten years or more often earn in excess of $100,000, although most of them are likely to have earned a bachelor's degree during their career.

Career advancement
A lodging company that operates many hotels generally offers the most opportunities for rapid advancement. These firms experience high turnover at property and corporate levels, and prefer to promote from within. The employee who welcomes challenges and assumes new responsibilities, such as sales, food and beverage operations, and supervisory duties, will be first in line for promotion and higher pay.

Career choices with your certificate:
•  Assistant manager
•  Banquet director
•  Catering director
•  Convention services manager
•  Front office manager
•  Housekeeping manager
•  Security director

With experience and/or further education you may go on to:
•  Casino director
•  Club manager
•  General manager
•  Resort manager