91ֱ��

February is CTE Month

Punxsutawney Phil, the groundhog who predicts how much winter is left, wasn’t the only one casting a shadow earlier this month on Groudhog Day.

Eight 91ֱ�� high school students spent the day following the shadows of hotel professionals. They were participating in Groundhog Job Shadow Day, a statewide initiative sponsored by the (THLA) that connects students with real-world hospitality career experiences.

“Groundhog Job Shadow Day is about opening doors – literally and figuratively – for students,” said Debbie Wieland, THLA representative. “By experiencing hotel operations firsthand, students discover career pathways and gain inspiration from the professionals who make hospitality thrive in Texas.”

Participating local hotels included Loews Arlington Hotel & Convention Center, Live by Loews, and the Lamar Hotel. They all welcomed students and shared insight into daily operations, teamwork, and career opportunities. Hotel leaders emphasized the value of mentorship and workforce development, noting that today’s students are tomorrow’s general managers, chefs, and hospitality innovators.

“It was incredible to see students’ enthusiasm,” said Sandy Hitt, 91ֱ�� hospitality program specialist. “They asked thoughtful questions and walked away with a new understanding of the career possibilities in the industry.”

The experience was eye-opening for the 91ֱ�� students.

“This day showed me that hospitality careers are about people, teamwork, and leadership,” one student said.

It won’t be long before these students are casting their own shadows in the hospitality industry, well-prepared for their future success through the real-world opportunities offered in 91ֱ��’s career and technical education program.

Learn more about 91ֱ��’s CTE.