THLA Earns 2026 ISHA Award of Excellence in Education & Workforce Development

The Texas Hotel & Lodging Association has been awarded the 2026 Award of Excellence in Education/Workforce Development by the International Society of Hotel Associations (ISHA).
This prestigious award recognizes a state hotel association program that introduces new employees to the industry, demonstrates an effective training mechanism, or otherwise enhances knowledge and understanding of hospitality careers. We are honored that our THLA Groundhog Job Shadow Day event has been selected for this recognition.

As many of you know, Groundhog Job Shadow Day was initiated by THLA to strengthen the hospitality workforce pipeline by introducing high school seniors and college students to the wide range of rewarding careers available within our industry. During its inaugural year, nearly 200 students participated across Texas, spending a day alongside hotel professionals and exploring hotel departments ranging from Front Office and Housekeeping to Sales, Food & Beverage, Engineering, and Executive Leadership.

The success of this program would not have been possible without the commitment of the THLA member hotels, local educators, and industry partners who opened their doors, shared their expertise, and invested in the next generation of hospitality professionals. Thank you for helping make this initiative such a meaningful experience for students across the state.

They are already preparing for Groundhog Job Shadow Day 2027, which will take place on February 2, 2027. If your property is interested in participating, please use the QR code on the attached flyer to register.
Together, we are building awareness of hospitality careers, inspiring future industry leaders, and strengthening the workforce that will support Texas hotels for years to come.

Workforce development initiatives are so vital to our collective future.  Please join me in congratulating Debbie Wieland for this national recognition.