My real story: Aditi S

Age: 31

Education and training: Master of Information Systems, Bachelor in Electronics and Communication Engineering

Current position: Service Manager – Engineering, Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney

Number of years at the hotel? 5 years

What does your role entail?  Responsibility for maintaining and controlling effective operations including A/C, steam, heating and cooling and pool systems.

How I got my start in the hotel industry: While I was pursuing my Masters degree, a friend recommended the hospitality industry.

What my career has looked like to date: I started in banquets as a Service Associate and then joined the engineering department. After one year’s experience I proved myself sufficiently and received a promotion to Shift Engineer.

Goals: To progress to a managerial level position.

Achievements: Becoming the first woman to work in the engineering department’s technical side at Shangri-La Sydney. Also, receiving the customer delight award twice in six months and being quickly promoted. Nominated for ” Rising star of the year 2016″ HM awards.

What surprised you about working in hotels?  I like the endless enthusiasm of people who work in hospitality. They are a different and rare breed – it should be named the smiling industry!

What have been some of the perks of working in a hotel? Free food, discounted rooms and offers on entertainment.

What skills/training have you received on the job? Strong interpersonal skills, a wide range of technical skills and problem solving abilities.

Mythbusting: When you enjoy your job you don’t mind working the long hours that are sometimes required. It’s part and parcel of the industry.

Advice for people who are considering a career in the hotel industry? It’s a people oriented industry so consider if this fits your personality. Apart from that, go for it! It’s hard work but extremely rewarding and a valuable experience with many opportunities.