Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego each proclaimed September 1 as Hotel Employee Day, joining the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) in its nationwide celebration of the thousands of hotel employees whose service, professionalism, and dedication help welcome millions of visitors each year while supporting Arizona’s hospitality industry, economy, and communities.
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Across Arizona, hotels employ nearly 225,000 individuals, accounting for 5% of all jobs in the state. The hotel industry generates more than $5 billion in total taxes annually, creating an economic impact that reaches restaurants, retailers, attractions, small businesses, and communities throughout the state.
In Phoenix alone, hotels drive significant economic activity. According to an Oxford Economics report, hotel operations and visitor spending generate more than $7 billion in economic activity and support more than 42,000 direct and indirect jobs.
Governor Hobbs’ proclamation reads, in part:
“Today we celebrate the dedication, professionalism, and service of hotel employees whose work helps make Arizona a welcoming destination for visitors and a stronger place to live and work. Arizona’s hotel employees are at the heart of an industry that welcomes visitors from around the world while creating meaningful career opportunities here at home., From the people who greet guests at the front desk to those working throughout hotels to create memorable experiences, their contributions strengthen communities across our state. On National Hotel Employee Day, Arizona is proud to recognize the people whose hard work, professionalism and commitment to service help make our state such a welcoming place to visit, live and work.”
Mayor Gallego’s proclamation similarly recognizes the essential role hotel employees play in Phoenix’s tourism industry and local economy.
“Hotel employees are an essential part of the visitor experience and help showcase the spirit of Phoenix every day. Their work often happens behind the scenes, but its impact can be felt throughout our city, from the guests they welcome and care for to the conventions, sporting events and tourism activity they help make possible. National Hotel Employee Day gives us an opportunity to recognize these hardworking professionals and thank them for helping make Phoenix a welcoming destination for all.”
AHLA launched National Hotel Employee Day in 2022 to recognize the more than 2 million employees who work throughout America’s hotel industry and highlight the integral role they play in tourism and communities nationwide. The commemorative day also calls attention to the more than 200 unique pathways and opportunities for career growth and advancement available within hospitality.
This year’s theme, “A Place to Start. A Place to Grow,” reflects the industry’s focus on creating welcoming workplaces where individuals from all backgrounds can begin careers, develop new skills, and pursue opportunities for advancement. From front desk and housekeeping positions to careers in culinary, engineering, health and wellness, sales and marketing, events, operations, and management, hotels offer opportunities for employees to build skills and advance into leadership.
“We are grateful to Governor Hobbs and Mayor Gallego for recognizing the hotel employees who help power Arizona’s hospitality industry,” said Rosanna Maietta, president and chief executive officer of the American Hotel & Lodging Association. “I’m so proud to represent an industry whose purpose is rooted in caring for others. National Hotel Employee Day recognizes the service-centered culture that sets our hotel community apart and celebrates the team members whose passion and commitment create memorable experiences for guests every day. We have more than jobs, we have pathways to lifelong careers and today we thank the remarkable people who power our industry.”
“Arizona’s tourism industry is thriving because of the incredible people who bring it to life every day,” said Kim Grace Sabow, President & CEO of the Arizona Lodging & Tourism Association. “Employees at Arizona’s hotels and resorts do far more than provide great service. They create memorable experiences, connect guests with the unique communities they visit, and help make Arizona a special and welcoming destination.”
