WHLA Showcases Careers in Hotels at FCCLA State Conference

The Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association (WHLA) is proud to support the future of the lodging industry by engaging with students at the upcoming Wisconsin Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) State Leadership Conference on April 7 at Kalahari Resort & Convention Center.

As part of this exciting event, WHLA Vice President Monica Goeke, CAE will present a breakout session titled “Careers in Hotels: Your Path Starts Here.” Designed to introduce students to the wide range of opportunities in the lodging industry, the session will explore careers in management, sales, events, culinary, housekeeping, and marketing.

In this session, students will explore the diverse range of careers available in the hotel industry and how the skills they develop through Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) education can lead to success in these roles. The session will also delve into valuable pathways for securing internships, applying for scholarships, and discovering early career opportunities, all aimed at helping students navigate their future in the hospitality field.

In addition to presenting, WHLA will be exhibiting at the FCCLA Expo from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., connecting with more than 800 students in grades K–12. The WHLA booth will showcase the association, highlight careers in the lodging industry, and engage students through interactive games and activities designed to spark interest and curiosity.
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Wisconsin Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) is a student-led organization focused on empowering young people through Family and Consumer Sciences education. Their mission centers on developing leadership, personal growth, and career readiness as students prepare for roles as family members, wage earners, and community leaders. With career pathways that include Hospitality & Tourism, FCCLA provides a natural connection point for WHLA to share industry insights and opportunities.

Why This Matters

WHLA is committed to building a strong and thriving lodging community across Wisconsin. Engaging with students is a critical part of that mission. By connecting early with future talent, WHLA helps:

• Raise awareness of career opportunities in hotels
• Build a pipeline of skilled, passionate professionals
• Strengthen the future workforce of Wisconsin’s lodging industry

​Investing time and resources into student engagement ensures that the industry continues to grow, innovate, and provide meaningful career paths for years to come.

WHLA is honored to partner with FCCLA to inspire the next generation and showcase the possibilities within the lodging industry.

Learn more about the event here: Wisconsin FCCLA State Leadership Conference 2026