Blake Hallman joined the hospitality faculty of the Trident Technical College in 2003. Prior to that time, he worked throughout  industry food service and hospitality operations—from wait staff to operations manager to general manager.  His positions have included Kiawah Island Resorts, Garibaldi Management Cooperation, Sunfire Grill and Bistro in the Charleston region. He still serves as an industry consultant for marketing and management.  Professional affiliations include the Greater Charleston Concierge Association, The South Carolina Battleground Preservation Trust, the Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie Trust along with the Fort Lamar Trust. A highlight is his work with the Morris Island Coalition, for which he has served as founder and spokesperson for the effort to save historic Morris Island. Mr. Hallman  holds a bachelors degree  from the College of Charleston and a masters degree in business from The Citadel.  He is a certified hospitality educator (CHE) according to standards achieved through the Educational Institute of the American Hotel & Lodging Association Educational Institute. He is also certified in alcohol awareness through the American Restaurant Association Educational Foundation.