Career Paths

Rogelio Guerrero Jr. manages the front desk at the Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino near Ruidoso. Guerrero is a member of the Mescalero Apache tribe, which owns and operates both the inn and the Ski Apache ski resort.

Guerrero said he was promoted to front office manager nearly six months ago. He has worked for the tribe for most of his life, and started out working in grounds maintenance.

Guerrero said the multi-million dollar luxury resort has been a wise investment for the tribe. The inn is the largest employer in Lincoln County, and the second-largest in neighboring Otero County.

“I think it really has helped out the tribe a lot, they employ a lot of people,” he said.

Guerrero said he does not have a college degree, but knows the hotel inside and out.

“Some of our people (who went to college) are in management positions now, but … I learned hands-on,” he said.

Guerrero said he thinks hotel management is a good career choice for those who enjoy travel.

“I’ve worked here most of my life, but I worked in Austin and Washington, D.C., as well at the Radisson as the manager for the restaurant and a supervisor,” he said.

Guerrero said hotel management is a busy industry, where supervisors have to be knowledgeable on nearly every aspect of a hotel from accommodations and security to events and promotions.

“I think the hardest thing is trying to keep up with promotions and marketing,” he said. “I have to know what’s going on in the hotel at all times. We talk to security, marketing and the restaurant.”

Guerrero said managers often have to be available 24 hours a day to handle situations or complaints, but says he doesn’t mind the night shift.