Our hotel Engineering teams are the behind-the-scenes force that helps make the Stay seamless, often in ways guests don’t even notice. Whether it’s repairing air conditioning units or keeping gym equipment in top shape, they ensure guests feel at home while on the road. Beyond daily upkeep, they lead long-term initiatives, like energy reduction and million-dollar renovations.
Meet Mike Bale and Mike Denison, two Engineering leaders who began their Hilton careers in one of Hilton’s many leadership development programs. Now, over 20 years later, they support over 80 hotels, ensuring on-property teams have the resources they need to Make The Stay.
How did you end up in Engineering at Hilton?
Mike D.: “I got into engineering early through fixing lawn tractors with my father, repairing and installing household appliances, and installing new heating systems. That hands-on experience led me to join one of Hilton’s leadership development programs, and I’ve been here ever since!”
Mike B.: “Like Mike, I began my Hilton career as an Engineering trainee in the Management Development Program. Before that, I studied facilities/mechanical engineering while working part-time in heating, cooling, and ventilation maintenance. I tried the consulting world after college, but the office life wasn’t for me. The opportunity with Hilton felt like the right and I haven’t looked back since!”
What does a day-in-the life look like for you both?
Mike D.: “My day is never the same. I could be flying from anywhere in the country, or even to French Polynesia! When I get to a property, I work closely with their leadership team to inspect all aspects of the hotel from a maintenance perspective. Bigger properties can take 2-3 days to complete the walk!”
Mike B.: “Totally agree that every day is different. On-property roles focus more on the technical and financial side of the hotel, while corporate engineering is all about supporting those teams behind the scenes.”
How do you and your team Make It Right for guests?
Mike D.: “Problem prevention is most important. Through preventative maintenance and making sure systems work properly from the start, we keep things running smoothly so guests never notice an issue. If a problem does arise, then we make sure we resolve the issue in the quickest and most effective way.”
Mike B.: “Training and gathering actionable knowledge are also key. I help teams use guest feedback to fine-tune our maintenance programs and improve how we respond to recurring issues, ensuring that every stay gets better.”
What are some of the most impactful Engineering wins you’ve had throughout your career?
Mike D.: “I’ve led energy-saving projects at large convention hotels like the Washington Hilton and Hilton San Diego Bayfront. By improving maintenance and operations, we made big cuts in energy use, supporting Hilton’s Travel with Purpose goals and making stays more sustainable.”
Mike B.: “I helped lead a $100+ million-dollar renovation of the historic Hilton Chicago hotel, helping me build my engineering skillset and knowledge. This renovation focused on maintaining the hotel’s historic finishings while incorporating more in-demand amenities, including new dining options and refurbished guest rooms and common areas.”
What is your favorite thing about working at Hilton?
Mike D.: “What I love most is the growth Hilton offers. I started as a trainee, then led an on-property team, and then multiple hotels. Now, I oversee an entire region of 85+ hotels in the western United States, Hawaii, and French Polynesia. Even better, I’ve been able to pay it forward by helping dozens of Team Members grow their own careers.”
Mike B.: “For me, it’s the people. I’ve worked with so many great teammates over the years, and I still stay in touch with people I met 20+ years ago. Sometimes we connect about current issues facing our properties, other times we reminisce about how we got to where we are today. That sense of connection makes the work really meaningful.”
From fine-tuning hotel systems to leading major projects, Mike Bale and Mike Denison show just how far a career in Engineering at Hilton can take you. They’ve grown from trainees to regional leaders, all while supporting teams and improving the guest experience across dozens of hotels. Their stories are a great reminder that behind every smooth stay is a team of experts making it all happen. If you’re ready to jump into a hands-on, rewarding career, check out our open roles and start your Hilton journey today.
