Monterey County, CA – The highly anticipated Special Events Management Team (SEMT) Internship program, a unique collaboration between the Sustainable Hospitality Management (SHM) program and Pebble Beach Company, commenced in June, 2023. This groundbreaking initiative, which originated in 2018 through the partnership of the renowned Chef Beat Giger and esteemed former SHM Executive Director Dr. John Avella, offers students an exceptional opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the field of sustainable event management.

As Chef Giger and Dr. Avella embark on their well-deserved retirement, the legacy of their partnership continues to thrive through the SEMT Internship program they initiated. Their vision and dedication have laid the foundation for a transformative learning experience that prepares students for success in the hospitality industry.

The training for the 2023 SEMT Cohort began on campus at the SHM program on May 5th, followed by two immersive training days at Pebble Beach on May 23rd and 24th. Students were immersed in an incredible learning experience under the guidance of Gretchen Melvin, Pebble Beach's Special Events Manager, and her team. The highlight of the training was the privilege of learning from two remarkable individuals, Kristopher Bartlett and Kiana Kretz.

Kiana, an SHM program graduate and former participant in the Special Events Management Team internship, has now taken on the role of a teacher. Her journey from student to mentor is truly inspiring and exemplifies the growth and potential nurtured within the program.

The training sessions focused on various aspects of hospitality operations, including reading Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) and addressing management challenges. Reflecting the ethos of the Sustainable Hospitality Management program, the participants learned through active engagement and hands-on practice.

Monterey County, renowned for its hospitality and tourism industry, is the perfect living laboratory for aspiring professionals seeking careers in sustainable hospitality management. The program is privileged to have exceptional industry partners in close proximity, facilitating unparalleled learning opportunities for its students.

Expressing deep appreciation, the Special Events Management Team extends its heartfelt gratitude to Pebble Beach, a world-class destination and an invaluable partner in this journey. The collaboration with Pebble Beach has been instrumental in providing students with an immersive and enriching experience in the world of sustainable event management.

As the SEMT Internship program gains momentum, stay tuned for further updates on the remarkable progress and continued exploration of the dynamic and ever-evolving realm of hospitality. The future is bright, and the program remains committed to nurturing the next generation of sustainable event management professionals.