"We believe our Corporate Learning Center offers a new prototype for company training programs, elevating them to a higher level," said Fredo Killing, Cheyenne Mountain Resort's general manager.  "We have created a results-driven learning experience that is a true alternative to corporations' in- house or university-based programs."

There are three main components to the training concept at Cheyenne Mountain resort's new Corporate Learning Center:   

• as an alternative to utilizing an in-house training staff, have highly experienced business executives and professional educators teach the classes;

• instead of a typical classroom-style setting, set the learning experience in the comfort and beautiful physical environment of a luxury mountain resort;  and 

• rather than only the typical dry learning sessions, allow the professional program designers on staff at the Corporate Learning Center to develop a curriculum that incorporates fun and memorable activities.

While training sessions are also held in the resort's state-of-the-art indoor meeting and conference facilities, a focus is on conducting the learning experience at other venues that take advantage of the beautiful natural environment, both on the resort's 217 lush acres and in the surrounding Rocky Mountains. 

Framed by stunning views of majestic peaks, the venues may range from sports settings to informal out-of-the way places for brainstorming. They include the resort's lake beach (the only beach in Colorado Springs), a variety of courtyards, terraces and grassy knolls, the championship golf course and the resort's High & Low Elements Challenge course.  In addition, as part of a seamless agenda put together by the Corporate Learning Center staff,  the learning is entwined with action activities such as white-water rafting and horseback riding as well as such enjoyable outings as hot air balloon rides and taking the cog train up famous Pike's Peak.  

At the Corporate Learning Center, environment is critical -- research shows that adults learn better when they are comfortable and not distracted by extraneous factors.  This distraction-free environment is achieved at Cheyenne Mountain Resort by utilizing only fully ergonomic furniture including "eight-hour chairs," providing world-class cuisine, and ensuring that beverages and snacks are always on hand during activities and sessions.

"People often expect training to be boring," said General Manager Killing.  "When it's enjoyable and stimulating they get more involved, and so learn better and remember more."

Killing also noted that the need for training has increased in today's business world. "With the weaker economy and corporate downsizing, employees work harder than ever before and need to handle a broader scope of responsibility, making increased training a must for many companies," he explained.

Cheyenne Mountain Resort captures the rugged charm of the Rockies with an ambiance of massive beams, rough-sawn siding, cedar shakes and native moss rock. The 40,000 square feet of meeting space is supported by the most advanced audio-visual and media  systems. The 38 meeting rooms, accommodating 10 to 600 attendees, include a tiered amphitheater for up to 110, a 19-seat boardroom, several ballrooms, a clubhouse room with terrace overlooking the lake and golf course, and conference suites. In addition to traditional support services, the Business Center offers a full range of digital and computer services, such as producing all materials on-site for a group event. Among the resort amenities are:  316 handsomely appointed guest rooms and suites, clustered in eight residential lodges, each with a private balcony and breathtaking views; two restaurants, a lounge and a pub;  an 18-hole, Pete Dye-designed golf course;  18 tennis courts;  squash and racquetball courts;  health and fitness center; and a 35-acre recreation lake for water sports such as windsurfing, sailing, canoeing and trout fishing.

Cheyenne Mountain Resort is operated by Benchmark Hospitality, based in The Woodlands, Texas.  The international hospitality management company operates luxury resorts, hotels, and conference centers throughout the United States, in Canada, and Japan.