Central Florida boasts a renowned reputation for its warm hospitality and standing as a global travel and tourism powerhouse. With nearly 40% of the local workforce embedded in the hospitality and tourism sector, it would seem to pave the way for coveted careers and opportunities.

Nevertheless, prevailing misconceptions within our community paint a different picture of the industry. Common perceptions include low wages compared to other sectors, limited career growth, a lack of advancement opportunities, and demanding hours and benefits.

Contrary to these beliefs, hospitality and tourism careers, particularly in Central Florida, are experiencing a surge in opportunities. Job seekers can explore roles offering transformative benefits, lucrative salaries, and the chance to master valuable skills such as customer service and management, which can propel them into lifelong careers with purpose.

After rebounding from the pandemic, Central Florida welcomed 74 million visitors in 2022, reaching an unprecedented total economic impact of $87.6 billion. Such a surge has opened up abundant jobs and opportunities across the region, providing pathways for individuals to thrive.

To reshape the narrative, the Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association (CFHLA) and CareerSource Central Florida (CSCF) recently collaborated to launch the groundbreaking State of the Hospitality and Tourism Summit. Held amidst world-class theme parks, hotels, and resorts, this summit united industry leaders, community experts, local media, and elected officials. They aimed to foster conversations and devise mission-driven solutions to alter the perception of today's hospitality industry. The summit also featured in-depth analyses of the current economic impact and workforce trends in hospitality and tourism.

Central Florida is home to nearly 450,000 hospitality professionals. Understanding the industry's perceptions, challenges, and opportunities is crucial to paving a forward path that reignites interest in a hospitality career.

Additionally, Central Florida hosts Fortune 500 companies and global brands, alongside successful startups and family-owned businesses relying on the industry's economic success. These businesses seek the same talent and skills found within the hospitality industry.

To chart the way forward, CFHLA and CSCF initiated the conversation and are now calling on leaders and experts to join forces in crafting solutions that redirect conversations and attract exceptional talent to the hospitality industry. Collaborating with other sectors will provide hospitality and tourism businesses access to a diverse talent pool with transferable skills applicable throughout the industry. For instance, management positions in various sectors offer skills in team leadership, crisis management, and customer relationship management. Industries like construction bring in talent skilled in event design planning, project coordination, and aesthetics for hotels and resorts. Such collaboration enables businesses to recruit talent from diverse backgrounds.

The hospitality and tourism industry will always be a critical driver for economic growth and job creation in Central Florida. That's why CFHLA and CSCF are enthusiastic about collaborating to propel the hospitality industry forward. By uplifting this dynamic industry and creating life-changing careers, we can build an even more extraordinary and authentic region here in Central Florida and beyond.