ICMS Student Christie Warren Selected for New Marriott Apprentice Program

ICMS Bachelor of Hospitality Management student Christie Warren has been selected for a prestigious apprenticeship, thanks to a new collaboration between ICMS and Marriott International.

As an aspiring hotelier, the Marriott Degree Apprentice Program paves the ultimate pathway for a career in the hospitality industry.

Christie will have the opportunity to rotate through various operations departments within Marriott, gaining valuable experience that will serve her well when she graduates. During her first year in the program, she will  work part-time in Food and Beverage and then move to the Rooms division at the Sheraton Grand. This will complement her studies as she continues her degree at ICMS.

“This opportunity means a great deal to me, both professionally and personally,” Christie said. “Gaining hands-on experience within the industry while still pursuing my degree is an incredibly rare and valuable chance.

“The skills I will develop, the networking opportunities and real exposure to a range of departments will deepen my skills and help me build a strong foundation within the industry and my career.”

A Pathway to Success in Hospitality Leadership

The Marriott Degree Apprentice Program is a career-boosting opportunity that is offered to one exceptional ICMS Bachelor of Hospitality Management student each year. Christie is the inaugural recipient. While she completes her degree, she’ll gain hands-on experience at Marriott International across various locations and capacities over a four-year period.

After graduation, she’ll have the opportunity to work with Marriott in hotel management to further build her skills.

Participants are also invited to apply for the Marriott ‘Voyage’ program, which is a 12- to 18-month graduate management training program that teaches important leadership and management skills needed for a successful career in hotels.

How the ICMS x Marriott collaboration came about

This collaboration came to life thanks to the hard work of several people. Dr Stuart Wiggins and Marianne Saulwick from ICMS, along with Fiona Pereira from Marriott International, played significant roles in making it happen.

They ensured the program not only helps students but also supports the future of the hospitality industry. It’s also designed to ensure students receive a competitive wage while attending structured classes at ICMS, seamlessly blending academic learning with practical career development.

Christie is the first of many selected ICMS students who will have this opportunity. She said it represents a springboard into the hospitality industry.

“When I got the call that I was selected, it was a moment of joy and pride for me,” Christie said. “It validated all my hard work and effort within university and within the industry so far.

“This apprenticeship will support my ambitions of becoming a leader in hospitality and give me the knowledge necessary to make a meaningful impact in the industry.”

More Than a Degree

This collaboration with Marriott perfectly aligns with ICMS’s mission to educate students for success in their personal and professional lives.

The unique integration of experiential learning with theoretical knowledge produces highly employable ICMS graduates. They are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to Marriott, while benefiting from the career growth opportunities offered by the global hotel chain.

By combining classroom learning with practical work experience, ICMS aims to make our students not just graduates, but valuable assets in any organisation they join.

This approach enhances employability and equips students with the skills needed to thrive in the hospitality sector.