In the past, a job in hospitality was often seen as a fallback for graduates - but times are changing and it is quickly becoming a popular first choice for a career. So says Bob Crowley, vice-president of operations for food bar and grill chain Chelo's. He told the Providence Journal that he started in the industry at age 14 and worked his way up - and he added there are still plenty of opportunities to advance up the hospitality ladder. Mr Crowley, who is currently taking part in a summer jobs training program giving students hands-on roles with his company, also emphasized the importance of prior experience when looking for jobs in the industry. Local mayor David Cicilline said the program demonstrates that volunteer and intern work can give young people a "competitive advantage" in a tough jobs market. Hospitality and particularly the hotel industry are expected to create many new jobs between 2006 and 2016, figures from the Department of Labor show. During this period, employment in the sector is expected to grow by 14%, compared to the all-industry average of 11%. In 2006, the hotel industry employed some 1.8 million people.  |