Check In to Your Future, Level Up Your Career: The Ultimate Guide to WHLA’s Sponsored Student Experience

At the Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association (WHLA), we believe the future of Midwest hospitality begins with the passionate individuals entering the industry today. That is why we are opening our doors to the next generation of lodging leaders at the 2026 Wisconsin Lodging Conference & Trade Show, taking place November 1–3, 2026, at the Kalahari Resort Convention Center in Wisconsin Dells.

Operating under the high-energy event theme "Check In. Level Up.", WHLA and our generous industry partners are providing fully sponsored, $0-cost student passes to ensure financial barriers never stand between emerging talent and executive mentorship.

The WHLA Investment: A $0-Cost Opportunity

​We aren't just inviting students to observe the industry—we are investing directly in their future. Through WHLA's student conference scholarship budget and individual member sponsorships funded directly by Wisconsin hotel owners, General Managers, and associate vendors, approved students receive a fully hosted professional development experience.

What's Included	Program Details
Waived Student Membership	100% waived student membership fee, sponsored by WHLA Leaders.
Complimentary Access Pass	Full access to keynotes, breakout tracks, trade show floor activities, and hosted meals ($0 cost).
Hosted Resort Lodging	Complimentary shared accommodations at the Kalahari Resort for out-of-town students.
Executive Networking	Direct access to General Manager, Resort Directors, and industry vendors.

Dual Eligibility Pathways: Who Can Apply?

To ensure broad access for future hoteliers, student applicants can qualify through one of two distinct pathways:
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• Pathway 1 (Institutional Enrollment): You are currently enrolled in a hospitality, tourism, or related degree/certificate program at an educational institution holding active membership with WHLA.
  
  
• Pathway 2 (Industry Connection): You are currently employed at a WHLA member lodging property AND enrolled as a student at any accredited college or university, regardless of your major.

Tailored Student Schedule Highlights

Student attendees participate in specialized events designed to build high-value skills and launch real-world lodging careers:
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• Sunday Student Orientation & Kalahari Tour (Nov 1 | 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM): An exclusive kick-off session open only to student attendees and $300 Student Sponsors. Features an official welcome meeting and a behind-the-scenes operational tour of the Kalahari Resort.
  
  
• Career Connection Tables (Mon & Tue Breakfasts): Reserved small-group morning tables where students sit face-to-face over breakfast with General Managers and Resort Directors for informal mentorship.
  
  
• Dedicated Student Panel (Mon, Nov 2 | 2:10 PM – 3:00 PM): "Checking Into Leadership: Extraordinary Careers and How to Build Them" explores how top lodging executives carved out unconventional, high-impact careers across the hospitality ecosystem.
  
  
• Wisconsin Lodging Trade Show Floor (Mon, Nov 2 | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM): Connect with 80+ industry exhibitors in the Kilimanjaro Ballroom, participate in the Passport Challenge, and engage with live activations.

Flexible Housing Preferences

During the online application, students choose the lodging option that best fits their schedule:
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• WHLA-Provided Shared Lodging (Complimentary): Hosted room assigned by WHLA at the Kalahari Resort for Sunday and/or Monday nights, organized into efficient trios (3 students per room).
  
  
• Self-Arranged / Employer-Reserved Lodging: Select this option if your school, employer, or family is reserving a private room independently.
  
  
• Commuter Option: Ideal for local students driving in daily for daytime programming and hosted meals.

Critical Deadlines & How to Apply

Ready to check in to your future and level up your career?

• Application Deadline: October 1, 2026
• Acceptance Notification: October 9, 2026
• Conference Dates: November 1–3, 2026

Download the Official Student Application Guide & Code of Conduct (PDF)

Submit Your 2026 Student Conference Application Online

How Industry Leaders & Vendors Can Get Involved

Hoteliers and associate vendors can directly support emerging talent by purchasing a Student Attendee Sponsorship for $300 during conference registration. Sponsors receive an exclusive invitation to the Sunday Student Orientation & Tour and recognition in event materials.

Additionally, educators and leaders can explore Education Alley on Monday, November 2, to connect with regional hospitality colleges and build employee upskilling pipelines.