As an increasing focus on environmentally friendly practices prompts businesses of all types to measure their sustainability, the hospitality industry has found itself evolving to respond to this trend. David Olds, who teaches environmental issues in the hotel management department at Kansas State University, explained that tomorrow's professionals will be expected to operate businesses that are both eco-friendly and profitable. "In the hospitality industry, an effort toward sustainability shows you are a good steward of the environment," he explained. Meanwhile, Professor Carol Shanklin suggested that hospitality graduates who are savvy about the sector's impact on the environment "will have a competitive advantage" in the job market. Other courses that may be important for prospective hotel managers include administration, accounting, economics, marketing, housekeeping, food service management and hotel maintenance. Many colleges and universities offer certificate or degree programs in hospitality or hotel management. According to the Department of Labor, employment in the sector is forecast to increase by 12% between 2006 and 2016, which could provide a variety of opportunities for those with the right customer service and organizational skills.  |