Hospitality Career Initiative (HCI)
Intended for all those in the hospitality industry who have a vested interest in Oklahoma's youth and the future success of the industry within our state.

Vision
The Hospitality Career Initiative (HCI) is recognized as a model educational program that creates a positive connection between school, work and future employment for young people and impacts workforce development for the hospitality and tourism industry.

Mission
To cultivate a new source of talent for the hospitality industry through state partnerships dedicated to hospitality school-to-career and mentoring programs, leading to a recognized national certification.

Why was the HCI Formed?

To help young people develop skills for the world of work
To develop awareness of the careers available within the hospitality and tourism industry
To enhance the image of the hospitality profession
To help alleviate the shortage of qualified labor needed in our industry

What is School-to-Career?

A significant education reform strategy that links what is learned in the classroom with workplace experiences.
High school students learn business skills in the classroom, become acquainted with career opportunities at career workshops and on field trips.
Gain practical experience during on-site, hands-on internships at local restaurants, hotels, and other travel and tourism venues
Provides students with the skills necessary to transition from the learning environment to being a productive employee and citizen

What are HCI's Areas of Focus?

Increase of industry involvement in school-to-career partnerships
Increase student access to mentored work experiences
Enhance resources available to educators regarding the hospitality and tourism industry
Improve hospitality industry image
Strengthen educator-industry partnerships
Document the impact of hospitality school-to-career programs
Develop recruitment human resources for the industry workforce
Provide students with information about college credit through articulation agreements with Hospitality and Tourism programs in over 25 colleges and universities.

In Which Schools is the HCI Currently Involved?

Autry Technology Center - Enid, OK
Meridian Technology Center - Stillwater, OK
Byng High School, Byng, OK
Caddo-Kiowa Technology Center - Ft. Cobb, OK
Metro Tech S. Bryant - Oklahoma City, OK
Canadian Valley Technology Center - El Reno, OK
Northeast Technology Center - Afton, OK
Northeast Technology Center - Pryor, OK
Douglass High School - Oklahoma City, OK
Project Reach - Oklahoma City, OK
Geary High School - Geary, OK
Pioneer Technology Center - Ponca City, OK
Great Plains Technology Center - Lawton, OK
Tulsa Technology Center - Tulsa, OK
Indian Capital Technology Center - Muskogee, OK
Western Technology Center - Burns Flat, OK
John Marshall High School - Oklahoma City, OK
Yukon High School - Yukon, OK

What are the Long-Term Goals of HCI?

700 students participating in 30 programs by September 2008
Establishment of scholarships for program graduates
Recognition events for contributions of students, educators and partners the career initiative
Create financial sustainability and stability through a variety of funding sources

Who Should Get Involved in HCI?
All stakeholders in the hospitality industry who have a vested interest in Oklahoma's youth and the future success of the industry within our state.

How Does One Get Involved in HCI and HCI-Supported Projects?
HCI welcomes financial and in-kind donations.

For Additional Information
Please contact Cindi Walls (405) 942-8181 or (800) 375-8181, or via e-mail.

Project Partners

Why was the HCI Formed?

What is School-to-Career?

What are HCI's Areas of Focus?

In Which Schools is the HCI Currently Involved?

What are the Long-Term Goals of HCI?