Testimonials
By definition, opportunity is a set of circumstances that makes it possible to do something. At the heart of our mission is creating opportunities within our team that empower individuals to apply their skills and talents every day. Hear directly from some of our team members in the testimonials below.
Careers Talent DevelopmentTestimonials
Marissa
Career Progression: After 11 months in the MIT Program, Marissa graduated and was promoted to the Operations Manager position at a TownePlace Suites by Marriott hotel. Since graduating MIT, Marissa has been promoted four times with the most recent- joining the Talent team at Hotel Equities' corporate headquarters. In addition to her promotions, Marissa was named one of Hotel Management Magazine’s 2021 Thirty under 30 rising stars in the Hotel Industry.
Marissa’s thoughts on her MIT Experience: “My MIT experience was career building, informative and hands-on. I learned all foundations of how to run a hotel from operations to Sales at the Hampton Inn and Suites Perimeter Dunwoody. In addition, to my experiential learning experience I was able to build valuable industry relationships within our company."
Jack
Career Progression: After completing a 9-month Manager in Training (MIT) program at The Farnam Hotel, Jack was promoted to Assistant Front Office Manager at the award-winning property. During the program, he was immersed in the day-to-day operations of Nebraska’s only AAA Four-Diamond hotel, gaining hands-on experience across multiple departments. The program’s comprehensive structure provided him with a well-rounded understanding of luxury hotel management. In his new role, Jack supports front office operations and helps lead the team in delivering the exceptional guest experience that defines The Farnam.
Jack's thoughts on his MIT Experience: "An invaluable experience for graduates, this program provided me with a strong foundation in hotel operations, virtual project management, and leadership development. My MIT experience directly led to a full-time management role, making it the ideal step after completing my undergraduate degree."
Anna
Career Progression: After completing a 10-month Manager in Training (MIT) program at the historic Hotel Paso Del Norte, Anna Marie was promoted to Assistant Front Office Manager at this distinguished property. Throughout her MIT tenure, she gained hands-on experience in multiple departments, developing a well-rounded understanding of luxury hotel operations. In her current role, Anna Marie applies her training to uphold the hotel’s renowned service standards and contribute to its legacy of excellence.
Anna's thoughts on her MIT Experience: "With around six years of hospitality experience before starting the MIT program, I thought I had a solid understanding of the industry—but this program took my knowledge and leadership skills to an entirely new level. The mentorship and support I received throughout the program helped refine my leadership style and prepare me for the next step in my career. The MIT experience was truly a turning point in my professional growth."
Jack
Career Progression: After 8 months in the MIT program, Jack graduated and was promoted to Business Development Coordinator at Hotel Equities' corporate headquarters. Since taking that position, Jack has been promoted three times - Business Development Manager to Regional Director of Business Development, and then to his current role as a VP of Business Development. In 2021, Jack was named one of Hotel Management Magazine’s 2021 Thirty under 30 rising stars in the Hotel Industry. He continues to serve as a program mentor to current students enrolled in the MIT program.
Jack’s thoughts on his MIT Experience: “Excellent. I landed in a great department with excellent mentors and peers. It is a great comprehensive education in our industry. It prepares individuals well for whatever discipline they which to specialize in.“
Corbin
Career Progression: After 7 months in the MIT program, Corbin graduated and was promoted to Assistant General Manager of a new-build Home2 Suites by Hilton hotel. Since his initial promotion, Corbin has been promoted three times: Opening AGM/Bench GM, Asset Manager, Business Development Manager, to his current role of Director of Business Development-West Coast.
Corbin's thoughts on his MIT Experience: "I enjoyed my MIT experience because I was able to experience all departments of a hotel's operations and to participate in task force and regional meetings. My task force assignments included assisting a property in San Antonio for two weeks and transitioning the FFI Gastonia and two Greenville properties. I was also able to interact with GMs across the company's portfolio and above property leaders from the corporate team."