The NoCo Hospitality Sector Partnership convened for its October All-Partner Meeting to discuss the evolving landscape of Northern Colorado’s hospitality industry.
State of the Industry
Leaders shared that while the industry continues rebuilding post-COVID, challenges persist—including burnout, talent loss, and public perception of hospitality as unstable or high-stress. Attendees emphasized the need to reframe hospitality as a flexible, social, and rewarding career path with rapid advancement opportunities. Comparisons were drawn to construction trades, which have effectively marketed appealing career narratives.
Workforce and Culture
Employers are working to rebuild mid-level leadership pipelines that once developed over many years. Participants noted the power of positive media portrayals—such as The Great British Bake Off—to shift perceptions of hospitality careers. Despite challenges, the earning potential remains strong, with examples like event workers earning thousands during major gatherings.
Engaging the Next Generation
Local schools, including Greeley and Severance High, are expanding career and technical education (CTE) programs with hospitality components. Educators called for more student engagement opportunities through job shadows, work-based learning, and informational interviews. Upcoming state legislation will also require students to complete concurrent enrollment, credentials, or work-based learning, creating new opportunities for partnership.
Opportunities Ahead
The Colorado Restaurant Association’s ProStart program was highlighted as a scalable model to meet policy goals. Andrew Minor proposed a storytelling-style hiring fair to make industry recruitment more engaging and authentic. The group agreed on the importance of revitalizing hospitality’s image to showcase its creativity, community, and growth potential.
Business and Sustainability Insights
Guest speaker Jen Johnson of Schooley Mitchell shared strategies for reducing business costs through vendor negotiations—often saving an average of 28% without changing vendors. NoCoBiz Connect also presented $1,000 sustainability grants for waste reduction and lighting improvements.
Closing Notes
The meeting concluded with roundtable discussions and collaboration ideas. Public partners praised the session for providing insight into real-world challenges and opportunities within the hospitality industry.