Noblesville, IN – (August 14, 2018) – U.S. Rep. Susan W. Brooks (IN-5) today toured the Embassy Suites Noblesville as part of the American Hotel & Lodging Association’s (AHLA) “Heart of the House” hotel tour program to meet with hotel employees in her district and see firsthand the career opportunities in the lodging industry.

Indiana’s hotel industry plays a vital role in the state’s economy, generating $6 billion in annual guest spending and $2 billion in tax revenues while supporting $4 billion of labor income. Guests staying at the 106 hotels in the state’s 5th Congressional District, which includes Marion, Carmel, and parts of Kokomo, spend $652 million each year, contributing to local labor income and economic activity. Click here for more information on how Indiana hoteliers contribute to the economy and local jobs.

“The hospitality industry has been responsible for creating over ten thousand jobs in the Fifth District of Indiana alone and is contributing to the continued growth of our state’s economy,” said Congresswoman Brooks. “It is important that we are all working together to encourage people to enter the workforce, and I am happy the American Hotel & Lodging Association is prioritizing closing the skills gap through their various career development programs. I am proud of Embassy Suites’ commitment to embodying true 'Hoosier Hospitality' and their support for the Noblesville community through job creation and lasting career opportunities. I look forward to continuing to work with local stakeholders to ensure the hospitality industry continues to thrive and support Hoosier jobs.”

The tour was led by Eric Welch, general manager of Embassy Suites By Hilton Noblesville Indianapolis Conference Center, a 198-suite properly that opened earlier this year. Also accompanying the congresswoman were Patrick Tamm, president of the Indiana Restaurant and Lodging Association (IRLA); Sarah Stegmeyer, director of communications and advocacy at IRLA; and Chris Burgoyne, vice president of government and political affairs for AHLA.

“It was an honor to welcome Congresswoman Brooks to our hotel and introduce her to so many of our exceptional associates who work hard every day to not just service our guests, but to help make their stay an experience to remember,” said Welch. “Hospitality is the heart of this industry. We pride ourselves on securing the best talent while continuing to support our local community, and we appreciate everything Congresswoman Brooks is doing back in Washington to support us in turn.”

AHLA engages with members of Congress on the "Heart of the House" hotel tours to provide an in-depth look at the career opportunities available as well as the economic and community impact of the lodging industry.