AHLEI was founded in 1953. We provide hospitality organizations and schools with quality resources to train, educate, and certify new professionals. 

The institute began as the educational arm of the American Hotel & Lodging Association. In February 2017, it became part of the National Restaurant Association’s Training & Certification division. 

AHLEI is widely recognized as the preeminent leader in global hospitality certification. Our solutions enable upward growth and learning in the industry. Professional certification options begin at the frontline level and continue all the way through general management.

Our solutions highly encourage upward career growth in the industry. What sets AHLEI apart is our commitment to professional development, with certification options available starting from the front-line level all the way through to general management.

AHLEI also provides strong foundational programs for workforce development agencies, putting new employees on the path to a career in hospitality. Secondary and post-secondary academic institutions use AHLEI’s hospitality textbooks and courses or adopt turnkey curriculum packages to educate future hospitality leaders.

Our organization's headquarters are in Orlando, Florida. We also have offices in Illinois, Michigan, India and China.

Did You Know?

AHLEI hotel industry certification programs are:

  • Portable
  • Industry-recognized
  • Supported by a network of 25,000 hotel members
  • Endorsed by the American Hotel and Lodging Association
  • Taught by licensed affiliates in nearly 100 countries

Our hospitality education and professional development resources can be utilized across the globe. 

Our extensive product line includes DVDs, textbooks, skills guides, and online courses. Training products are translated into Spanish, Chinese, and other languages.