In this episode the Ski Moms talk with Kristel Killary. Kristel Killary is the Assistant Professor and Program Coordinator for the Resort and Hospitality Management program at Vermont State University, based at Killington Resort. A lifelong skier who grew up at Pico Mountain, Kristel transitioned from a 12-year career in amusement park operations to Killington Resort before finding her true calling in education. She now leads this unique three-year bachelor's degree program that combines academic learning with paid resort industry experience.
Kristel breaks down VSU's innovative Resort and Hospitality Management program that allows students to earn their bachelor's degree in three years while gaining extensive hands-on experience at Killington Resort. Kristel also discusses industry trends, including increasing opportunities for women in leadership roles and the potential impact of AI on resort operations.
Resources:
Program Website: https://vermontstate.edu/academic-programs/resort-hospitality-management-bs/
Campus Location: Killington Resort, Vermont
Partner Resorts: Killington Resort, Pico Mountain, Woodstock Inn and Resort
Key Quotes:
"Most of our students graduate debt-free - that's a true testament to working while going to school. The average amount our students make in their co-ops is about $32,000."
"If they can combine a passion with an education and a career - that's the secret sauce, that's what we all really want."
Participating destinations include:
🏔️ Steamboat 🏔️ Winter Park Resort 🏔️ Arapahoe Basin 🏔️ Palisades Tahoe 🏔️ Mammoth Mountain 🏔️ Big Bear Mountain Resort 🏔️ Snow Valley Mountain Resort 🏔️ Stratton Mountain Resort 🏔️ Sugarbush Resort 🏔️ Snowshoe Mountain Resort 🏔️ Crystal Mountain 🏔️ Schweitzer Mountain Resort 🏔️ Deer Valley Resort 🏔️ Solitude Mountain Resort 🏔️ Tremblant Resort 🏔️ Blue Mountain Resort
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