Explore Hospitality elevates one of West Michigan’s leading employment sectors by developing careers, cultivating talent and promoting a thriving hospitality industry. The council’s efforts will attract and develop skilled workers to provide world-class service throughout the region.

More than 35,000 people are employed in the hospitality industry in West Michigan, and 20 of the most in-demand jobs in our region are part of hospitality. This Industry Talent Council is bringing together employers, education, and economic and workforce development in our inaugural year. When the hospitality industry succeeds, the whole community benefits through better jobs and stronger businesses.

Explore Hospitality works to promote the industry, retain talent, and provide training and resources to employers. We work with employers and community partners to encourage careers in the industry through three key strategies:

• ELEVATE: We are dedicated to promoting hospitality as a sustainable career pathway for anyone in the workforce.

• TRAIN: We provide resources for employers to upskill new or current employees and create a sustainable talent pipeline for West Michigan’s hospitality industry.

• RETAIN: We create or promote beneficial retention programs aimed at keeping existing talent in the hospitality industry.