Courtesy of Vilas H.
Name: Vilas H.
Position: Engineering and Facilities Management Voyager
Hotel: The St. Regis New York
Dream destination: Iceland. To see the northern lights!
Drink or treat of choice: A classic French croissant. Flaky, buttery perfection.
After he found out about Marriott’s Voyage Program via an Internet search while in his final semester in college, Vilas knew he had what it took to land a place in the program.
“I realized that my four years of college had perfectly equipped me for the role in engineering and facilities management I aspired to,” he remembers confidently. “After submitting my application, I didn’t have to wait long before receiving a response from my hiring manager. She shared the exciting news that my application had progressed, and I was scheduled for a virtual interview with a director of engineering.”
That job he was interested in was at one of the company’s most emblematic hotels, The St. Regis New York.
Courtesy of Vilas H.
“My hiring manager informed me that I had been accepted into the Marriott Voyage program and would have the incredible opportunity to work at The St. Regis New York. It was a surreal moment, realizing that I would be able to pursue my passion right out of college and at one of the world’s most iconic hotels.”
Learn more about Vilas’ exciting journey as a Voyager in his own words below.
What is your favorite part of the job?
My favorite part of the job is learning about the hotel, particularly from the perspective of maintenance and engineering.
How would you describe your experience as a Marriott associate?
It has not only met but exceeded all my expectations. Each day presents challenges and opportunities, and this has given me an invaluable opportunity to learn about the hotel, its intricate operations, and the company itself. These learning experiences continually empower me to apply these new skills directly to my work.
Describe a moment you felt like a part of a community at Marriott.
One of the standout moments in my Marriott journey that made me feel like part of a community was when I had the privilege to participate in a Marriott BLT (Breakthrough Leadership Training) conference. Interacting with associates from different properties of different brands and backgrounds opened my eyes to the global reach and cultural diversity of the company. It reinforced my belief in the strength of our Marriott family.
Courtesy of Vilas H.
Describe a moment you felt supported at Marriott.
During my Voyage admission process, I felt supported the entire way. My hiring manager’s commitment to ensuring my preparedness, providing insightful information, and promptly addressing my inquiries left a great impression. Rani served as my initial representation of the Marriott culture, and it fueled my desire to delve deeper into the ethos of Marriott and become a part of the Marriott family.
How would you describe Marriott’s culture?
It is built on a strong foundation of valuing and prioritizing its employees, and this commitment is reflected in the excellent benefits and support it provides to its workforce. At the heart of Marriott’s culture is the recognition that employees are its greatest asset. Every morning, every department hosts a stand-up meeting with their team and there is a moment we cherish dedicated to celebrating the birthdays and anniversaries of our valued hosts. It reinforces the sense of unity and connection that defines our workplace culture.
How have you made the most out of your Voyage experience?
By embracing every moment as a valuable learning opportunity. Whether it’s been in the form of challenging tasks, interactions with guests, or collaboration with fellow hosts, I’ve consistently sought to get knowledge and skills that contribute to my personal and professional growth. I’ve also placed a strong emphasis on connecting with the dedicated employees at the hotel. Their experience and insights have been invaluable in shaping my understanding of the industry and the unique culture of our hotel.
Courtesy of Vilas H.
How has Marriott supported your growth and given you the opportunity to try new things?
By providing me opportunities such as in-person and virtual events to develop my management and networking skills. Through the company, I’ve also been invited to events where I could not only showcase these newfound skills but also forge meaningful connections, helping me grow within the Marriott family.
Where do you hope the Voyage program will take you?
I hope the Voyage program will serve as a steppingstone in aligning my career path toward the role of a Director of Facilities at Marriott.
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