• In 2008, restaurant industry sales are projected to reach $558 billion.

• The restaurant industry generates a total economic impact of more than $1.3 trillion. Every dollar spent dining out generates $2.34 in business for other industries.

• The restaurant industry's share of the food dollar is currently 46.9 percent.

• Visit Industry Research for more information.

• The restaurant industry employs 13.1 million people, making it the nation's largest employer outside the government.

• Nine out of 10 salaried employees at tableservice restaurants — including owners, operators and managers — started as hourly employees.

• More one in two American adults have worked in the restaurant industry at some point in their lives.

• Experience in the restaurant industry — whether for a year or a career — means a lot. The restaurant industry is an important employer of new workers. Once in the industry, a wealth of training is available.

• Opportunities in the restaurant industry are varied. The restaurant industry offers opportunities in catering, banquet management, public relations, accounting and senior executive positions. There is a place for everyone in the restaurant industry. See who's who and what they do.

• From a handful of schools in 1970, there are now more than 1,000 college-level programs that specialize in restaurant or hospitality management, plus hundreds of culinary schools and programs. In addition to this postsecondary training, there is also specialized training at the secondary level, as well as rewarding professional development programs.