Students of Wenonah High School Academy of Hospitality and Tourism have an opportunity to network with local professionals

BIRMINGHAM, Alabama – Students at Wenonah High School in southwest Birmingham who wish to pursue a career in food or allied industries can take advantage of the Hospitality and Tourism Academy of the ‘school.

The academy, which started in 2012, regularly offers students the opportunity to meet and learn from professionals from the local industry.

Students at the academy had another such opportunity on November 13, when the school welcomed representatives from industries ranging from travel and hotel services to banking and wedding planning, according to a statement from school press.

After remarks from Wenonah principal Regina Carr-Hope and Judge Andre Sparks, students toured 11 stations to speak to presenters, including representatives from several colleges.

In the school’s modern kitchen, Creative Catering by Ambrosia and Executive Chef Michael Glenn of Blue Cross Blue Shield hosted a cooking demonstration for the students, making seared tilapia and baked sweet potato fries.

Several Birmingham high schools now offer vocational academies, also known as small learning communities. The academies are organized around professional themes such as health, business and IT.

Career Academies are part of the National Academy Foundation and part of a national trend to make high school more relevant to students.

THotels visited by students included the DoubleTree, the Hampton Inn & Suites, and the Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort and Spa.

For more information on Birmingham, visit www.al.com/local/birmingham.