Future workforce inspired at first hospitality and tourism event at Tech Center
MUSKEGON: This fall the Muskegon Area Career Tech Center (MACTC) hosted the first-ever Hospitality and Tourism Career Day. The industry has seen considerable growth in recent years as Muskegon gains popularity as a tourism and events destination. The goal of the event is to help inspire a future workforce by introducing students and getting them excited about career opportunities here in Muskegon County.
In addition to MACTC students, students from Fruitport, Holton, Mona Shores, Oakridge, Orchard View, Reeths-Puffer, and Whitehall, attended the inaugural event. 120 students and 25 industry experts participated. Students enjoyed breakout sessions on grilling foods, ice carving, cake decorating, and running a bistro, panel discussions hosted by business owners and employees, and the opportunity to meet local industry experts during the career fair portion of the event. Featured businesses included: Agewell Services, Baker College/Culinary Institute of Michigan, Bella Maria’s Ristorante, Double JJ, Downtown Muskegon Now!/Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce, Goober’s Bakery, Holiday Inn, Kirby House, Lakeshore Museum Center, Michigan’s Adventure, Michigan Restaurant Association, Muskegon State Park, Ryke’s Bakery, Shoreline Inn, Sullivan University, and USS Silversides.
State Senator Goeff Hansen also stopped by to show his support. Senator Hansen said he is proud to be a strong advocate for Career and Technical Education and its ability to effectively prepare students for 21st Century careers.
The MACTC Hospitality and Tourism Career Day was sponsored by Shoreline Inn and the Lakeshore Museum Center. For more information on hospitality and tourism growth in Muskegon, see the related article on the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce website.
Contacts: Bethanie Swier, MACTC Career Development Coordinator, bswier@muskegonisd.org, 231-767-3624
Elissa Penczar, MACTC Hospitality & Tourism Instructor, epenczar@muskegonisd.org, 231-767-3668