Duane Thompson (middle), general manager of The Summit Restaurant, takes delight in making friends with dining guests like Ann and Phil Winslow.

In today’s rapidly evolving career landscape, working for the same company for decades is nearly a thing of the past. But a dedicated group of employees at The Broadmoor, a 106-year-old Colorado Springs landmark, joyfully bucks this trend. Their shared commitment also ensures unforgettable guest experiences among the grandeur of this iconic resort.  

LOYALTY IN THE LOBBY

For MarySue Wildman, 79, the concierge department has been her second home for 25 years. A retired speech-language pathologist, Wildman sought a flexible post-retirement job that allowed her to travel. When a friend encouraged her to apply at The Broadmoor, she jumped at the opportunity and never looked back. 

“One of the reasons I love the job is we’ve always been like a family,” said Wildman. “We enjoy each other. We laugh and cry together.”

Like any well-rounded concierge, Wildman knows the hotel inside and out. Her encyclopedic knowledge of the hotel delights guests, particularly when she recounts quirky stories like that of founder Spencer Penrose’s pet elephant, Tessie, who served as his golf caddie.

Known for being a problem-solver, Wildman has loaned her own jewelry to guests who have forgotten theirs and even tracked down a CD for a guest based on a single remembered lyric.

“I don’t know how many safety pins I’ve handed out, or bowties and neckties I have tied,” Wildman mused.

MORE THAN A CAREER

 Jeremy Wilson

 For Jeremy Wilson, 57, The Broadmoor is more than a workplace—it’s a calling. While he isn’t quite ready to retire, he’s certain he wants to finish his career at the resort.

“Most employees here have the hospitality bug,” said Wilson, a 25-year employee and Director of National Sales. “They enjoy serving people and giving them an experience that’s second to none.” 

Wilson attributes The Broadmoor’s renowned reputation for hospitality to its dedicated staff. This commitment has earned The Broadmoor consistent 5-star Forbes Travel Guide and 5-diamond AAA ratings. 

Another stalwart of The Broadmoor is Duane Thompson, 64, who began his career 47 years ago as a busboy at the London Grill in The Antlers Hotel, which was under The Broadmoor’s management at the time. Rising through the ranks to manage the acclaimed Penrose Room, Thompson helped the restaurant achieve coveted 5-diamond and 5-star status. Although he briefly retired, he returned to manage The Summit, finding the workplace even more rewarding. 

“The Broadmoor feels like home,” Thompson said. “There’s a genuineness of caring. The benefits are the best of any organization I have worked for. I feel my opinions and insight are appreciated.”

MarySue Wildman

 Among the unsung heroes at The Broadmoor are Payroll Manager Janet Corns, 73, and Payroll Specialist Janet Kaufmann, 67, affectionately known as “the Janets.” With a shared sense of humor, they joked that the reason they keep working is to avoid sitting in front of the TV at home with their husbands. 

Though their work often takes place behind the scenes, both women, each with 18 years of service at The Broadmoor, enjoy the people they work with. 

“I like the camaraderie. We are a team,” said Corns. “If I can’t help people, I know who to refer them to.” 

PERKS OF THE JOB

 Janet Corns

 Despite newer generations’ tendency to job-hop, Kaufmann estimates that about 40% of Broadmoor employees have been with the hotel for 15 years or more. The hotel regularly honors their service with appreciation events, reinforcing the loyalty that keeps employees committed. 

When Kaufmann was out for 13 weeks due to injuries from a car accident, she experienced firsthand the care that defines The Broadmoor.

 “Management and co-workers truly cared about me and continually reached out to me,” she said. 

The hotel president even called to assure her that her job would be held for whenever she was ready to return.

Even newcomers like Garry Butcher, 73, feel the magic. After just two years in retail sales, he has already embraced the opportunity to work at one of the world’s leading luxury resorts. 

“It’s a great ride,” Butcher said.

 Gary Butcher

 The magnificent resort grounds are an undeniable perk of working at The Broadmoor, offering an inspiring backdrop that fills employees with pride and a sense of belonging.

“I love coming to the hotel every day,” said Wilson.

“It’s a great group of employees and a beautiful property,” Kaufmann added, echoing a sentiment shared by many who feel fortunate to be part of such an extraordinary workplace and travel destination.

The Broadmoor’s Colorado Appreciation Special

Have you always wanted to experience The Broadmoor for yourself or book a return stay? They’re offering exclusive nightly rates for select dates January-February for Colorado residents. Take advantage of:

• Complimentary golf greens fees (cart not included), tennis and pickleball court time 

• Suites available at 25% off published rates

• Three-course prix fixe special menus (except for February 9-16) at Ristorante del Lago, The Golden Bee and La Taverne.