Austin ISD is launching an innovative program designed to help students earn an Associate of Applied Science degree in Hospitality Management at no cost while attending high school. This program was created in partnership with Austin Hotel Lodging Association, Visit Austin Foundation, and Austin Community College.

The program is found exclusively at Travis Early College High School and taught by Austin Community College professors. Students will learn from hotel, restaurant, and tourism industry leaders, giving them real-world experience in hospitality and tourism management. 

Joe Bolash is the Board Chairman of the Austin Hotel and Lodging Association. He said there is a huge market for students in the hospitality industry today.

“The future of our industry is bright and that couldn’t be more true than right here in Austin, Texas,” Bolash said. “The Austin Hotel and Lodging Association and our member hotels are proud to serve as an industry partner as we look to transition students from the classroom to the workplace and launch the next generation into their hospitality careers.” 

The program includes mentoring and internships that allow students to learn and perform industry skills and build a network, preparing them to join the third-largest industry in Austin. 

“This is taking a program with a 20-year history of excellence, and we are adding in the postsecondary bridge for students to earn an associate degree at no cost,” said Jayma Vaughan, program director. “I cannot think of a collaboration better suited for the innovative, service-minded, and diverse students of Austin ISD.” 

This partnership aligns perfectly with the Visit Austin Foundation’s mission to promote education, job training and career opportunities within Austin’s hospitality and tourism community. Creating awareness of and access to the full range of opportunities within these fields. We are proud to work alongside the Austin Hotel and Lodging Association to mentor and equip the future of our industry.

To apply for the program or for more information please contact program director Jayma Vaughan at jayma.vaughan@austinisd.org or you can visit http://www.travisrebels.org/

(Photos are from before 2019-2020 school year)