Hospitality & Tourism CTE Program
Building Utah’s Next Generation of Tourism and Hospitality Leaders
The High School Hospitality & Tourism CTE Program is a statewide career and technical education course developed through a partnership between the Utah Tourism Industry Association and the Utah State Board of Education. The program introduces high school students to one of Utah’s most vital industries while preparing them for future careers in hospitality, tourism, and other service related fields.
About the Program
This comprehensive course provides students with a foundational understanding of the tourism and hospitality industry, combining classroom learning with real-world exposure, industry engagement, and career-ready certification opportunities.
Students explore how tourism connects communities, supports local economies, and creates diverse career pathways across Utah and beyond.
What Students Will Learn
The program introduces key sectors of the hospitality and tourism industry, including:
- Hospitality & Tourism Marketing
- Lodging and Accommodations
- Transportation Systems and Services
- Food & Beverage Operations
- Recreation & Entertainment Industries
Industry Engagement & Guest Speakers
Students will hear directly from professionals working across the tourism economy through guest speaker sessions, featuring leaders from different sectors of the industry. These sessions provide firsthand insight into career pathways, daily responsibilities, and the skills needed to succeed in hospitality and tourism careers.
Tourism industry professionals interested in participating can complete a simple speaker interest and engagement form or contact the program manager to be matched with a classroom opportunity that fits their expertise.
Industry Certification Opportunity
All enrolled students will have access to tourism and hospitality-focused certifications offered by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute.
Upon completion, students receive a digital certificate that can be added to:
- Resumes
- College applications
- LinkedIn profiles
- Career portfolios
Scholarships & Financial Support
The program includes dedicated scholarship opportunities for both students and educators:
Interested in the Program?
If you're an educator, administrator, or industry partner interested in learning more about program offerings, contact Kim Thompson, UTIA Education Program Manager.