A lot of us got our first jobs in the hospitality industry. And while jobs like waiting tables, cleaning hotel rooms, or washing dishes don't have the veneer of prestige, the fact of the matter is that those who stay in the industry have an opportunity for promotion and advancement. Plus, if you like working with people, it's an industry that can't be beat.

Flexibility And Opportunity

Traelynn Pirner has been a waitress since she was 18 years old, trying to make ends meet while going to college.

"I realized it was an easy way to work around college," says Pirner. "It's very flexible."

Now 34, Pirner has worked at Outback Steakhouse for the past 11 years, and she's had the opportunity to wear a lot of hats while working for Outback, including bartender, manager and trainer.

"I know what you need to do," says Pirner. "You need to go above and beyond."

When she and her husband decided to start a family, Pirner was able to cut back her hours, going back to waiting tables, thanks to the career's flexibility.

Career Variety

There are other careers that may not seem to be part of the hospitality industry.

"The industry is probably broader than one might think," says Dave Siegel, Hospitality Minnesota president and CEO.

Siegel likens the hospitality industry to a stage production. There are people who are very apparent (actors and wait staff, for instance), but there are also people behind the scenes, like the lighting crew and maintenance staff.

"You don't get the glory, but you're part of the experience," says Siegel.

Workers Needed

To keep fresh blood in the industry and promote education, the National Restaurant Association started a program called ProStart. In Minnesota, 37 high schools are involved and students are eligible for college scholarships to further their careers. While you don't need a college degree to go far in the industry, it can help.

"You don't have to have a formal education to succeed, but more training is becoming available for rapid advancement," says Siegel.

Robert Elsenpeter is a freelance writer from Blaine.