1 rich Libsyn https://www.libsyn.com 90 600 What does it take to introduce a brand new industry to a community? That is the challenge Chris Kelley, President of Hard Rock Casino Tejon, is tackling in opening the Hard Rock Casino Tejon in Kern County. With more than 20 years of experience in gaming and hospitality, Chris shares inspiring insights on Hard Rock’s partnership with the Tejon tribe, the creation of thousands of jobs, and the impact of introducing an entirely new industry to a region traditionally dominated by agriculture and energy. From discussing amplified guest service and meaningful community relationships, to revealing the grassroots approach to workforce development, Chris unpacks how Hard Rock balances its global brand identity while authentically rooting itself in Kern County’s culture and history. Tune in to discover the impact of breaking new ground and building an industry from the ground up.&amp;nbsp; You’ll learn: The impact of introducing thousands of jobs to a region previously dominated by agriculture and energy, helping to diversify and strengthen the local economy. How the hospitality sector is a powerful career engine, allowing workers to start at any level and progress in their careers, fostering growth and upward mobility for long-term success. How building strong relationships—with the Tejon Tribe, local businesses, and especially the community college network—has been critical to the Hard Rock Casino project’s progress. The ways in which rapid technological changes—especially in AI—are reshaping hospitality to augment jobs and create efficiencies rather than replacing roles outright. About the Guest: Chris Kelley, President of Hard Rock Casino Tejon, is a strategic leader with extensive experience in the hospitality and entertainment industry with a career spanning more than two decades. Prior to joining Hard Rock, Chris served as President &amp;amp; COO of MGM Resorts International Northeast Group, where he oversaw operations at MGM Springfield in Springfield, MA and Empire City in Yonkers, NY. Prior to this role, Chris served as President &amp;amp; COO of MGM Northfield Park, where he opened the property with the highest gross gaming revenues in the state. Additionally, as CFO of MGM Detroit, Chris led all finance operations for one of the largest regional properties in the country. He holds Bachelor’s Degrees in Economics and Political Science from Connecticut College and a Master’s Degree in Economics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.&amp;nbsp; Engage with us: LinkedIn, Instagram &amp;amp; Facebook: @PasadenaCityCollegeEWD Join our newsletter for more on this topic: ewdpulse.com Visit: PCC EWD website &amp;nbsp; More from Chris Kelley &amp;amp; Hard Rock Casino Tejon LinkedIn: @Hard Rock Casino Tejon Instagram: @hrhctejon Facebook: @HardRockTejon Website: https://casino.hardrock.com/tejon &amp;nbsp; Partner with us! Contact our host, Salvatrice Cummo, directly: scummo@pasadena.edu Want to be a guest on the show? Click HERE to inquire about booking&amp;nbsp; Find the transcript of this episode&amp;nbsp;here Please rate us and leave us your thoughts and comments on Apple Podcasts; we’d love to hear from you! The Future Of Work http://thefutureofwork.libsyn.com/website <iframe title="Libsyn Player" style="border: none" src="//html5-player.libsyn.com/embed/episode/id/39387530/height/90/theme/custom/thumbnail/yes/direction/forward/render-playlist/no/custom-color/88AA3C/" height="90" width="600" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen oallowfullscreen msallowfullscreen></iframe> https://assets.libsyn.com/secure/item/39387530