NexusBC is sponsoring a retail, tourism and hospitality training program for youth.
“We’re excited about this new training opportunity for ages 18-25,” said Patricia Niehaus, program coordinator. “Currently there are very little training opportunities for youth in these specific industry sectors in the North Okanagan.”
Niehaus said the need for this type of program is great, as retail, tourism and hospitality industries are growing, and employers are finding it increasingly difficult to find job-ready employees. Studies have indicated that the hospitality industry is expected to have a significant labour shortage.
“Having the training available for employees to succeed in the industry is key, and having this training would allow employees to start a career, not just a job,” said Jana Gohl, operations manager at Sparkling Hill Resort.
The program will provide 10 weeks of paid practical training to help youth get a job in the retail, tourism or hospitality industry. Participants will receive job-appropriate certificate training like FoodSafe and Serving It Right, as well as help with communication, teamwork, conflict resolution, work-life balance and workplace culture.
Guest speakers and workplace tours will give real information about jobs in these industries. Participants will also improve their job search skills like resume and cover letter writing, interview skills, labour market information, personal marketing and networking.
A large component of this training program comes through NexusBC’s partnership with Okanagan College.
“Each participant will receive 120 hours of workplace essential skills training that is customized to their individual needs,” said Niehaus. “These are the foundational skills used to carry out work tasks and they’re the building blocks used to learn new ones.”
The training runs from Nov. 24 to Feb. 13, and the deadline for application is Wednesday. Eligibility requirements are available online at www.nexusbc.ca.
