CALIFORNIA (October 16, 2015) - Congresswoman Mimi Walters (CA-45) met with employees today at the Courtyard by Marriott at Irvine Spectrum to get an inside look at how the hotel industry impacts the local economy and to learn first-hand about career opportunities within the industry.

The Heart of the House hotel tour, hosted by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA), was led by hotel Assistant General Manager Nick Dell'Ergo. During her time at the hotel, located in Orange County, Congresswoman Walters heard from employees about the upward mobility that is unique to the hotel industry.

After touring the hotel, meeting with many of its hardworking employees, and learning more about the economic impact the hotel has on our local community, it remains apparent that this industry not only boosts our local economy, but promotes jobs, revenue, growth and community development here in Southern California and across the country said Congresswoman Walters.

"It was truly a great opportunity to show Congresswoman Walters our hotel and the amazing people we work with every day," said Assistant General Manager Nick Dell'Ergo. "I thank AH&LA and the Congresswoman for taking the time to showcase our industry and all it has to offer."

The state of California's hotels are an important segment of the economy, with nearly seven percent of all jobs in the state directly or indirectly related to the lodging industry. The California lodging industry generates $7.7 billion in tax revenue for state and local governments. Many of California's lodging properties are small businesses, with local entrepreneurs operating hotels independently or in partnership with national brands.

The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA) works with state associations to engage with members of Congress on the Heart of the House hotel tours, which provide an in-depth look at the career opportunities available as well as the economic impact the lodging industry has on the local, state and national economies.