08/18/2026

Carrie Richards

Director of Education, Workforce & Foundation

Carrie Richards joined the Ohio Hotel & Lodging Association as the Director of Education, Workforce & Foundation, bringing nearly three decades of hospitality experience and a passion for developing the people who make the industry thrive. Carrie began her career as a room attendant at the Radisson Plaza Hotel in Minneapolis while earning her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin-Stout. She went on to spend 12 years with Wyndham Hotels, holding leadership roles in guest services, housekeeping, operations and hotel management across the country.

In 2005, Carrie joined the Hilton Columbus at Easton as Director of Rooms and became General Manager in 2014. During her tenure, she was recognized as Ohio's General Manager of the Year by OHLA in 2017 and helped lead the hotel through significant growth and a $27.5 million transformation. Throughout her career, Carrie has remained committed to mentoring, community involvement and strengthening the hospitality industry. She now brings that experience to OHLA, where she focuses on education, workforce development and supporting the future of Ohio's hospitality workforce.