The VET by EHL licensing model enables institutions and training centers worldwide to implement ready-to-use hospitality programs
and offer professional diplomas approved by EHL.
This model is designed to be scalable, cost-effective, and appealing to both students aiming for a career in hospitality and adults pursuing a professional transition.
Rooted in the Swiss Competency Framework-widely recognized as one of the world’s leading educational models-this blended training approach emphasizes clear learning outcomes and is structured around competence-based content delivery.
HBS America proudly partners with EHL for the delivery of the Apprenticeship Model, a 80/20 split format implemented in collaboration with local hotel partners. Learners gain hands-on experience through daily on-the-job training, complemented by one day per week of classroom-based theoretical instruction.
The model requires limited infrastructure and upkeep costs, as all learning takes place on a learning management system and in partner-owned facilities.
Full-time staff is not required. Industry experts are recruited and are trained according to EHL standards following the train-the-trainer methodology and are ready to deliver their courses in less than 6 months.
Learning is based around flexible working schedules where students are paid for their work and education fees are subsidized by the employer.
Education is tailored to meet the needs of the local industry supporting experienced hospitality workers in receiving a formal, world-class education experience without leaving their country or interrupting their employment.
The partnership model allows for quick adaptations to local market evolutions.
At HBS America we are committed to shaping socially responsible hospitality professionals who value innovation, sustainability, and diversity in their everyday practice.
Fluency in English is not required to join the foundational program; however, a Bl intermediate level (basic reading and comprehension) is recommended. The content is primarily delivered in Spanish, with support from English materials and resources.
Being familiar with English will help students better engage with international content, prepare for global work environments, and ease the transition to more advanced levels of education.
Each level of the VET by EHL program lasts approximately 6-12 months and is divided into theoretical and practical modules tailored to the work schedules of participants.
This flexible structure allows employees to study while working and progressively develop key competencies in areas such as customer service, food and beverage, accommodation operations, leadership, and more.
Upon completing the VET by EHL program, participants receive a professional certification recognized internationally and aligned with EHL’s (École hôtelière de Lausanne) Swiss standards of excellence.
This opens career opportunities in areas such as:
Additionally, the certification can act as a catalyst for professional growth within the same company. Many organizations that are strategic partners of HBS America promote internal talent development by offering employees the chance to study while they work. This facilitates promotions, role changes, or increased responsibilities within the company.
Lastly, the program can serve as a foundation for pursuing higher education in hospitality, further expanding professional growth opportunities.
No, prior hospitality experience is not required to enroll in the VET by EHL program.
This program is specifically designed to train professionals from the ground up who wish to build a career in the sector. It provides the tools and skills needed to perform with excellence in real-world work environments.
That’s why the program offers three levels: foundational, intermediate, and advanced.
What matters most is having a genuine interest in service, a willingness to learn, and a commitment to professional development. Experience is built throughout the program through a combination of theory, practical exercises, and real-life workplace application.
The VET by EHL program is designed to develop practical and operational skills that are directly applicable to the real world of competencies in: hospitality. Throughout the program, participants gain competences in:
These skills are aligned with EHL’s Swiss standards of excellence and prepare students to thrive in demanding professional environments.
