START Professional Certification

A distinct feature of the Skills, Tasks, and Results Training (START) program program is the opportunity for students to earn an industry recognized and portable professional certification from the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute.

Widely recognized as the preeminent leader in hospitality certification, EI strongly supports and encourages the certification of hospitality professionals. Certification demonstrates proficiency. It is a concrete indication of your skill, and shows employers and guests that you are committed to your profession and are well trained with proven abilities. Certification gives job seekers a competitive edge over noncertified candidates, increased job retention and an opportunity to earn higher wages.

Students who successfully complete the START curriculum and pass the final exam will receive a voucher waiving the fees for a Hospitality Skills Certification in one (1) of the twelve (12) areas covered in the START curriculum. They can redeem their voucher once they have been hired in the qualifying position in the industry.

In addition to the industry recognition, the START certifications are unique in that they highlight student's preferences. Since students are trained in (12) positions they can use their personal goals and interests to determine which of the qualifying positions best suit them for upward growth, setting the stage for their hospitality career.

Front line certification designations available from the Educational Institute for START students include:
 

• Front Desk Representative
• Public Space Cleaner
• PBX Operator
• Maintenance Employee
• Bell Attendant
• Restaurant Server
• Reservationist
• Banquet Server
• Guestroom Attendant
• Banquet Set-Up Employee
• Laundry Attendant
• Bus Person

For those schools wishing to explore a stackable certification option for their students, EI is pleased to present the Guest Service Gold program and professional certification. Guest Service Gold is a comprehensive program that can easily be incorporated into the START curriculum as a compliment to the program components. The goal of Guest Service Gold is to create guest service-oriented front line employees who know how to engage with their guests in order to provide memorable guest service. Students who complete the Gold program have an opportunity to add yet another industry recognized certification from EI to their resume. Set the gold standard today!

For more information about the START Program, please contact: