Hospitality Management apprenticeship programs combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction—covering front-desk operations, food & beverage management, event coordination, and leadership skills. Participants earn wages (typically $28–30/hour) while working toward an AAS Degree in Technical and Professional Studies—a credential recognized across the industry.
1. Core Components of Hospitality Apprenticeships
- Front Office & Guest Services: Reservation systems, check-in/check-out procedures, and guest relations
- Food & Beverage Operations: Menu planning, inventory control, service standards, and licensing requirements (e.g. ServSafe)
- Event & Banquet Management: Floor plans, vendor coordination, and on-site execution
- Housekeeping & Facilities Oversight: Quality inspections, staffing coordination, and sustainability practices
- Supervisory Skills: Team leadership, performance feedback, and conflict resolution
- Safety & Compliance: OSHA workplace protocols, responsible alcohol service (TIPS), and food safety regulations
State-approved apprenticeships blend on-site rotations at local hotels and resorts with linked college coursework, ensuring mastery of both practical and theoretical aspects.
2. Timelines & Program Duration
- Standard Apprenticeship: 12–18 months combining paid work (20–30 hours/week) with evening or weekend college courses
- Accelerated Tracks: Credit-for-prior-learning options can reduce total classroom time to as little as 6–12 months
- Flexible Scheduling: Employers and colleges coordinate to balance work shifts with academic sessions at nearby campuses
Apprentices complete 1,200–1,800 paid work hours alongside 30–45 credit hours toward the AAS degree, graduating fully qualified for supervisory roles.
3. Certification Pathway & Requirements
1.Apprenticeship Agreement: Register with a U.S. Department of Labor–approved sponsor and employer
2.On-the-Job Training: Accumulate required paid work hours under a certified mentor in a participating hotel
3.Related Instruction: Complete linked academic coursework at a partner college
4.Progress Evaluations: Pass periodic competency assessments in both work and classroom settings
5.Credential Awards:
- AAS in Technical & Professional Studies (Hospitality Management)
- U.S. DOL Completion Certificate
- Industry Certifications: ServSafe Food Protection Manager, TIPS alcohol certification, Certified Hospitality Supervisor (CHS)
4. Example Apprenticeship Providers
These institutions partner with local hospitality employers to deliver paid apprenticeships:
1.Carroll Community College (MD)
- Program: Hospitality Management Apprenticeship
- Format: Paid rotations at regional hotels + evening classes at Westminster campus
2.Ivy Tech Community College (IN)
- Program: Hospitality Management Apprenticeship
- Format: On-site training in Indianapolis hotels + online coursework
3.Wake Technical Community College (NC)
- Program: Hospitality Management Apprenticeship
- Format: Paid hotel rotations in Raleigh + weekend seminars
4.Houston Community College (TX)
- Program: Hospitality & Tourism Management Apprenticeship
- Format: Daytime hotel assignments + evening lectures at Central campus
5. Workforce Demand & Outlook
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the Hospitality and Leisure sector is projected to add 820,000 jobs between 2023 and 2033—ranking third among all major occupational groups. Specifically, hotel employment is expected to grow 7%, creating 124,700 new positions over the next eight years
6. Who Should Consider This Program?
- Career Changers from Retail or Foodservice: Seeking stable, structured advancement
- Recent High School Graduates: Interested in hands-on training with a clear credential
- Military Veterans: Looking to translate leadership and logistics experience into hospitality
- Hospitality Support Staff: Front-desk clerks or servers aiming for supervisory roles
- Adult Learners with Scheduling Constraints: Needing paid work while studying evenings or weekends
7. Future Earnings & Advancement
- Hourly Wage Range: $28–$30 during apprenticeship
- Post-Completion Median Salary: $68,130/year for lodging managers (≈$33/hour)
- Advanced Roles: Event Manager, Food & Beverage Director, or General Manager positions often command $75,000–$100,000+ as experience grows.
8. Locating an Apprenticeship Near You
- Search Local Colleges & Hotels: Enter “hospitality management apprenticeship” plus your city or ZIP code.
- Consult State Apprenticeship Registries: Identify registered programs and approved employer partners.
- Contact Industry Associations: Reach out to local Hotel & Lodging Associations for listings.
- Speak with Campus Advising: Inquire about start dates, employer partners, and application deadlines.