Hospitality and tourism

PacMtn’s scenic region draws visitors from across the globe. From Mount Rainier and the Pacific coast to world-class restaurants, craft breweries, hotels, and attractions, hospitality and tourism is one of our fastest-growing industries. While the sector is often associated with entry-level jobs, it also offers long-term career paths, leadership roles, and entrepreneurial opportunities. Thousands of jobs and millions in tax dollars generated by this industry keep our local economy strong and our communities vibrant.

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Why choose a career in hospitality and tourism?

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Number of worksites in the Pacific Mountain Region

A diverse range of employers offering jobs in food, lodging, recreation, and entertainment. Use the tool below to filter the number of worksites by occupation. This number is based on core occupations in the sector, meaning those jobs that are essential to business activity and that typically require more training to fill.

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People employed in the region

A workforce that reflects the energy and creativity of our communities.

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Projected new core jobs

A region brimming with outdoor recreation, population increases, and new business development ensures a vibrant tourism community over the next 10 years. Use the tool below to filter the number of projected new core jobs by occupation. This number can be higher or lower based on the location of employers in this sector around the region.

Hospitality careers are fast-paced, people-focused, and full of opportunity. Whether you’re seeking a first job, a flexible role, or a pathway to management, this sector offers the chance to build skills, earn income, and move forward.

Tools for the job

Top knowledge

  • Customer service
  • Sales technique
  • Marketing strategy
  • Safety and security
  • Culinary arts

Top technical skills

  • Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software
  • Point of sale software
  • Data analysis
  • Cleaning and sanitization

Top abilities

  • Communication
  • Empathy
  • Conflict resolution
  • Social awareness
  • Flexibility
  • Creativity

Start your future in hospitality and tourism

You can use the tool below to find employers in the region. The tool also highlights skill gaps in the sector. A positive number usually signifies that there are more job openings in the region than qualified workers.

Finding the right pathway

Hospitality and tourism offers multiple ways to get started—whether you’re looking for flexible work, a first job, or a pathway to management. Many people begin in entry-level roles like front desk staff, servers, or housekeepers, and grow into supervisory, operations, or business ownership opportunities.

You can also explore formal training programs in areas like culinary arts, hospitality management, or event planning. Apprenticeships, internships, and on-the-job training programs give you hands-on experience while you earn. For those seeking career advancement, mentorship opportunities and leadership training programs can help open doors to higher-paying, stable roles. No matter where you start, this industry offers a pathway forward.

Training and education options

Evergreen State College

Evergreen State College offers a certificate in supervision applicable to upward mobility in a multitude of sectors. Located in Olympia, Thurston County.

Grays Harbor College

Grays Harbor College offers curriculum to support careers in the Culinary Arts, among many other occupations supporting the hospitality sector. Located in Aberdeen, Grays Harbor County.

South Puget Sound Community College

South Puget Sound Community College offers curriculum to support careers in the Culinary Arts, among many other occupations supporting the hospitality sector. Locations in Olympia and Lacey, Thurston County.

Finding the right employer

The workplace you choose matters just as much as the role you play. In hospitality and tourism, some employers go above and beyond to provide supportive environments, fair wages, and real opportunities for advancement. That’s why we highlight employers with High Road Employer and Quality Job badges. These badges signal organizations that invest in their people, provide career growth, and prioritize workplace well-being.

When searching for jobs, look for these badges to guide your decision. Whether it’s a hotel that fosters professional development, a restaurant committed to staff well-being, or a tourism company that values community connection, these markers help you find an employer where you can thrive and finish strong in your career journey.

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Events, sector workshop, job fairs

Hospitality and tourism thrives on connection—and so does your career. Throughout the year, PacMtn and our partners host career fairs, hiring events, and industry workshops designed to connect you with local employers, training providers, and mentors. These events are a chance to explore career opportunities, practice your networking skills, and take your next step with confidence.