It defines, on-the-job training. The University of Houston is preparing to unveil its newly renovated and expanded on-campus hotel following a $30.4 million construction project. The private school is home to the Hilton College of Global Hospitality Leadership. Not surprising that the hotel will be a Hilton brand. Hotel magnate Conrad Hilton started up the program in 1969.

The hotel allows UH students to gain experience by staffing and taking classes in an actual working hotel. Nearly 70% of the hotel’s staff are students.

The updates to the hotel include a new 64,000-square-foot, eight-story tower, which added 70 more guest rooms to the property. The project also included the renovation of the hotel’s existing 80 guest rooms, lobby, public spaces and courtyard.

The project was designed by Houston-based Kirksey, and California-based DPR Construction served as general contractor. The re-build was funded with revenue bonds.