Timothy Williams

Certificate in Hotel Real Estate Investments & Asset Management

Cornell University | New York, USA

Grant 2018

Barbados

I was awarded a CTO Foundation Study Grant to pursue a Certificate in Hotel Real Estate Investments and Asset Management—an opportunity I had been actively seeking for quite some time. I had explored several master’s programs, but none offered the unique combination of my core passions: hotels, real estate, and investments. Lifelong learning is important to me, but after graduating from university years ago, I became more intentional about what I chose to study—focusing only on subjects that truly ignite my interest.

Time and flexibility were also key considerations. I wasn’t in a position to step away from work for an extended period to study abroad—especially after learning that my then-girlfriend, now wife, was expecting our first child. A certificate course that offered a specialized, challenging curriculum—while accommodating my personal and professional life—was the ideal solution.

The course exceeded all expectations. I was part of a truly international cohort, with classmates from the Middle East, China, Germany, Switzerland, Africa, and beyond. I was proud to be the only Caribbean national in the group. Each participant brought distinct perspectives and experiences—from department managers to general managers, senior executives, and hotel owners. Some were sharpening skills they already had, while others, like me, were diving into new territory to gain a broader understanding and carve out a unique space in their careers.

I embraced every moment of the learning journey, eager to apply the knowledge in real time. As fate would have it, during the course I was approached to assist in a hospitality venture—supporting a property owner in profitably managing her short-term rental. While not a traditional hotel, many of the same principles applied. This unexpected opportunity inspired me to accelerate one of my personal goals: launching my own hospitality consultancy, which I aim to officially register this year.

Today, I continue to deepen my understanding of hotel operations, applying insights from the course and making new connections that directly enhance our work in the industry. Had the CTO Foundation not taken a chance on me by providing funding, none of this might have been possible. I am deeply grateful for their belief in my vision and for empowering me to begin making a lasting contribution to the hospitality sector.

Thank you, CTO Foundation!