LANSING, Mich. — Michigan is turning up the heat this summer with the official launch of Culinary Careers Month this July. In a proclamation issued by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, the month-long celebration recognizes the vital role of the state’s culinary and hospitality industry and aims to inspire the next generation of restaurateurs and hospitality professionals.

Michigan’s hospitality and culinary industry is a vital component of Michigan’s economy, culture, community and identity, contributing significantly to tourism, small business development, and workforce innovation. The hospitality industry employs 10 percent of Michigan’s workforce, or more than half a million residents, and creates tens of billions of dollars in annual sales in Michigan.

Culinary Careers Month seeks to inspire students and job seekers to explore the many rewarding opportunities available in Michigan’s thriving hospitality industry while fostering awareness and support for culinary education and career pathways. This work will strengthen local economies, promote food sustainability, and ensure the continued success of Michigan’s hospitality sector.

“Celebrating July as Culinary Careers Month provides us an amazing opportunity to inspire students here in Michigan so they can explore a future in hospitality,” said Michigan Hospitality Foundation Executive Director Amanda Smith. “We aim to use this month to develop the incredible talent we see in our restaurants into tomorrow’s leaders, while leaning on our employees’ deep skill, dedication and creativity.”

Students statewide are embodying culinary careers month and being introduced to potential hospitality careers through the Michigan Hospitality Foundation’s ProStart and Hospitality Tourism Management programs, which give students the opportunity to build their skills within the hospitality industry.

Students who are interested in learning more about potential careers in hospitality are encouraged to visit mihf.org.