Staff Reports | Community Updates
Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego have proclaimed Sept. 1 as Hotel Employee Day, joining the American Hotel & Lodging Association in recognizing hotel employees whose work supports Arizona’s hospitality industry, economy and communities.
Hotels across Arizona employ nearly 225,000 people, representing about 5% of all jobs in the state. The hotel industry also generates more than $5 billion in tax revenue annually, supporting restaurants, retailers, attractions, small businesses and communities throughout Arizona, according to a press release.
In Phoenix, hotel operations and visitor spending generate more than $7 billion in economic activity and support more than 42,000 direct and indirect jobs, according to an Oxford Economics report.
Gov. Hobbs’ proclamation reads, in part:
“Today we celebrate the dedication, professionalism, and service of hotel employees whose work helps make Arizona a welcoming destination for visitors and a stronger place to live and work. Arizona’s hotel employees are at the heart of an industry that welcomes visitors from around the world while creating meaningful career opportunities here at home. From the people who greet guests at the front desk to those working throughout hotels to create memorable experiences, their contributions strengthen communities across our state. On National Hotel Employee Day, Arizona is proud to recognize the people whose hard work, professionalism and commitment to service help make our state such a welcoming place to visit, live and work.”
Mayor Gallego’s proclamation also recognizes the role hotel employees play in Phoenix’s tourism industry and local economy.
“Hotel employees are an essential part of the visitor experience and help showcase the spirit of Phoenix every day. Their work often happens behind the scenes, but its impact can be felt throughout our city, from the guests they welcome and care for to the conventions, sporting events and tourism activity they help make possible. National Hotel Employee Day gives us an opportunity to recognize these hardworking professionals and thank them for helping make Phoenix a welcoming destination for all.”
The American Hotel & Lodging Association launched National Hotel Employee Day in 2022 to recognize the more than 2 million employees working throughout the nation’s hotel industry and to highlight their contributions to tourism and local communities.
The annual observance also highlights the more than 200 career pathways available within the hospitality industry. This year’s theme, “A Place to Start. A Place to Grow,” reflects the industry’s focus on career development and advancement opportunities for employees from a variety of backgrounds.
Career opportunities within hotels span front desk and housekeeping positions as well as culinary, engineering, health and wellness, sales and marketing, events, operations and management roles.
“We are grateful to Governor Hobbs and Mayor Gallego for recognizing the hotel employees who help power Arizona’s hospitality industry,” Rosanna Maietta, president and chief executive officer of the American Hotel & Lodging Association, said. “I’m so proud to represent an industry whose purpose is rooted in caring for others. National Hotel Employee Day recognizes the service-centered culture that sets our hotel community apart and celebrates the team members whose passion and commitment create memorable experiences for guests every day. We have more than jobs, we have pathways to lifelong careers and today we thank the remarkable people who power our industry.”
“Arizona’s tourism industry is thriving because of the incredible people who bring it to life every day,” Kim Grace Sabow, president and CEO of the Arizona Lodging & Tourism Association, said. “Employees at Arizona’s hotels and resorts do far more than provide great service. They create memorable experiences, connect guests with the unique communities they visit, and help make Arizona a special and welcoming destination.”
National Hotel Employee Day is observed annually on Sept. 1 to recognize the contributions of hotel employees and their role in supporting tourism, local economies and communities throughout the United States.
