SALT LAKE HOSPITALITY: PROVIDES MEANINGFUL CAREER PATHS.

• Author: Farley, Nichole

The COVID-19 pandemic left drastic and long-lasting impacts on the hospitality industry. With a resurgence In consumer spending, Salt Lake's full recovery is hindered by a workforce shortage in the hospitality industry.

Industry leaders are working diligently to spread the word that a career in hospitality is a rewarding one, allowing for endless career track options, travel discounts and perks, and flexible schedules. Many who started their careers in the hospitality industry never imagined that their front-line "job" would become more than a paycheck.

Working in the hospitality industry provides employees with an opportunity to learn transferable skills, with flexibility and unlimited opportunities for career mobility around the world. Dave Fields started working at Snowbird in 2000 as the Assistant Director of Public Relations. Throughout his career at Snowbird, Fields held many positions before being promoted to President and General Manager in 2018.

"For someone who grew up skiing in Little Cottonwood Canyon to have an opportunity to become the General Manager of Snowbird is the honor of a lifetime," said Fields. "Working in the ski industry has provided me with opportunities to work with amazing people in one of the most beautiful places in the world."

Travis Lindquist, the general manager at the TownePlace Suites in Salt Lake City Downtown, began his career in the hotel industry at a 66-room property in 2008.

Over ten years, Lindquist worked hard to come up the ranks, advancing his career, to become the General Manager at his current property.

"I find working in the hospitality career to be personally rewarding," said Lindquist. "I love to share my love of hospitality and Salt Lake City with my guests and associates. Some of the best people work in this amazing industry. Our community of hospitality professionals support and mentor career growth for so many."

Career paths in hospitality are not always linear. Lavanya Mahate, owner of Saffron Valley Indian Restaurants, started working as an intern with the Salt...