Hospitality Overview

The hospitality field has been recognized as one of the few growth industries in Michigan because enterprises such as Four Winds Casino, Blue Chip Casino, and the planned Harbor Shores Development.

In 2004, hospitality accounted for 32.3 percent of occupations in Michigan. Now, travel, tourism and the restaurant industries are some of the largest and fastest-growing industries in the world and by 2014 the projected amount of occupations for the Tri-county area in hospitality alone will account for 34.3 percent of all workforce jobs according to the Michigan Works! Web site.

Special Event Planning Speciality Certificate Program

This certificate is the first of SMC’s hospitality offerings – the creation of which has been partially grant funded. This certificate is 18 credits and does require students to meet developmental prerequisites. The program can be taken as a stand-along certificate or as a part of SMC’s associate degree programs in business management or executive assistant. Follow the link on the left to Degrees/Certificates, select Occupational Programs and Certificates and look for the link to the curriculum guide for the Special Event Planning Speciality Certificate Program.

Special event planners organize events that focus on a common purpose. They ensure that the event runs smoothly and coordinate every detail from meetings location, speakers, printed materials, food, and audio-visual requirements.

Strong organizational, negotiation, and other skills are required to be successful in this industry. Good planners should have a network of contacts, be creative, and have the ability to procure services without concerning the client.