Educating Our Team for Future Growth

At the Bavarian Inn and Lodge, we aim to give our guests the best service and experience possible. For our family, that is more than just a slogan. It is our mission. To achieve that, we have instituted an education program that gives our employees the opportunities to understand and participate in that philosophy. We want our employees to experience the satisfaction and fulfillment that comes from joyfully serving others.

We offer several options to our employees that help them improve both their own lives and their performance at work. A high school diploma is the first stepping stone to all the opportunities available in life. We offer a GED tutoring program for our team members who haven’t yet reached this milestone. Tutoring is right on site and we cover the cost, including books and other materials. When the time comes for the team member to take the test, we also cover the testing fees.

For our team members who are pursuing a college degree, we offer a tuition assistance program. We will work with team members to modify their work schedule to allow them to be able to attend classes. We are also looking at ways that we can locate scholarships and grants for team members pursuing degrees in our industry. We believe this is truly a long term win-win for the team member and for the future of the Bavarian Inn and Lodge.

The third and most important element in our team education program is Dale Carnegie Training. The tools provided in this program encourage our staff to dig deep in both their personal and professional lives, helping them to make real breakthroughs in the way they approach situations and people. Dozens of our staff have completed this course, providing our company with numerous leaders dedicated to continuing the positive and effective work environment that has become the hallmark of the Lodge.

Education gives our team members the knowledge and confidence to perform at their best. The more tools they have at their disposal, the more effectively they can do their jobs. When that happens, our guests truly do enjoy the highest quality service and the best experience possible.

Judy Zehnder Keller is president of the Bavarian Inn Lodge and Convention Center in Frankenmuth, Michigan. Nestled along the Cass River in one of Michigan’s top tourist locations – Frankenmuth – the Lodge has 360 European-themed guest rooms, including whirlpool and family suites, four indoor pools, three whirlpools, two water slides, a miniature golf course, two gift shops, two lounges and two restaurants — all under one roof. In addition to being president of the lodge, Judy is also president of the Frankenmuth Cheese Haus and the Frankenmuth Gift Shop. She is recognized statewide for her leadership in promoting tourism in Michigan.