Hospitality & Outdoor Recreation
The hospitality and outdoor recreation sector offers diverse career paths for those who thrive in people-focused, experience-driven settings. Entry-level roles like front desk attendant, event coordinator, ski lift operator, or outdoor guide provide hands-on training and customer service experience.
From there, professionals can advance to specialized or supervisory roles, such as front office manager or operations supervisor, or explore departments like marketing and human resources to build skills in revenue management and employee engagement.
Mid-career options include roles like director of operations or regional manager, where leadership, strategic thinking, and guest experience management are essential. Certifications and degrees in hospitality can support growth at this level.
Ultimately, senior roles, such as general manager or chief operations officer, allow professionals to oversee facilities, shape strategy, and drive industry innovation, blending customer satisfaction with community impact and personal growth. Jobs in this sector make up 39.1% of Eagle County’s workforce.
This sector is especially appealing to individuals who thrive in high-energy settings, enjoy outdoor activities, and are adaptable to seasonal business cycles, offering not only diverse career options but a lifestyle that celebrates nature, adventure, and human connection.
Resort / Hospitality / Lodging Manager
- Colorado Mountain College - Resort Management Associate Degree and Certificates
Ski Area Operations
- Colorado Mountain College - Ski Area Operations Associate Degree
Chef & Head Cook / Restaurant Manager
- Colorado Mountain College - Culinary & Restaurant Management Associate Degree and Certificates
Facilities Manager
- Colorado Mountain College - Multi-Occupational Trades Associate Degrees
- The International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Denver Chapter - Essentials of Facility Management
Getting Started
Students interested in entering this pathway can apply for apprenticeship, internship, job
shadow, and employment opportunities. Students should begin by talking with their school counselor to ensure they have room in their high school course load. From there, counselors will connect students with a CareerX team member to assess their interests and determine a placement for them. Eagle County School’s P-TECH program is also a great introduction to outdoor recreation and stewardship pathways. The hospitality and outdoor recreation pathways offer various points of entry.
Adults interested in this pathway can explore the Colorado Mountain College programs listed above and contact local employers directly about on the job training opportunities and professional development opportunities based on your skills and interests.
- Condominium Association Manager: $105,870
- Lodging Manager: $109,350
- Ski Area Operations: Varies by skill set
- Tour & Travel Guides: $48,130
- Retail Buyers and Purchasing Agents: $68,230
- Chef & Head Cook: $75,360
- Human Resource Manager: $73,420
- Facilities Manager: $101,390
Employers offering quality jobs play a vital role in supporting economic growth and stability by providing fair wages, career advancement opportunities, and a positive work environment, attracting talent and contributing to a thriving community.
