Aug 20, 2007

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE           August 2007

CONTACTS:  Nancy Hamilton, Lee Rose (239)338-3500

Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau employee  earns esteemed hospitality industry certification

LEE COUNTY, FL – Mike Fischer, tourism education manager for the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau (VCB) in southwest Florida, has earned the designation of Certified Hospitality Trainer (CHT) from the Educational Institute of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA) at the organization's annual conference in Tucson recently.

The CHT designation is one of the highest achievements awarded by the Educational Institute.  To qualify for this distinction, hospitality professionals must demonstrate their skills and abilities through academic achievement and industry experience.  A comprehensive examination covers such topics as hotel operations, financial management, human resource management, and administrative skills.

The Educational Institute is a non-profit educational foundation of the AH&LA, providing professional development for lodging industry employee career advancement. 

"With the tourism marketplace continuously changing and increasingly competitive, earning the Certified Hospitality Trainer designation is an important achievement and will truly benefit local tourism businesses," said Suya Davenport, VCB executive director.  "The VCB and the Lee County Tourist Development Council are proud of this accomplishment from Mike and his commitment to our organization."

Fischer joined the VCB in April 2007.  A seasoned education and training  professional, he is responsible for outreach to the local industry through the coordination, development, and implementation of hospitality and education programs, as well as conducting presentations about tourism issues to the public.  With sharp customer service-oriented skills, Fischer has conducted professional development training programs for a variety of organizations, prior to joining the VCB.              

EDITOR'S NOTE: The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel in southwest Florida includes: Sanibel & Captiva islands, Fort Myers Beach, Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, Estero, Cape Coral, Pine Island, Boca Grande & Outer Islands, North Fort Myers, Lehigh Acres. Photo available upon request.

Printable Version