Addressing Hotel Labour Shortages: Destination Employment Training Underway Across Canada

Destination Employment Atlantica HotelNow into its second year, the national Destination Employment program continues to successfully help newcomers acquire the knowledge and experience they need to gain meaningful employment in Canada.

The program provides skills and language training to newcomers to Canada in five regions: Yukon, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario, and Atlantic Canada. Participating employers gain resources to help onboard the new staff, including the establishment of a robust mentorship program.

The pilot program enters the fall season with regional delivery partners working tirelessly to organize cohorts for newcomers in their respective regions. The following sessions are either planned or already underway:

  • The Yukon Tourism Education Council (YTEC) started a new cohort on September 23.
  • The Saskatchewan Tourism Education Council (STEC) commenced classes for its fall cohorts in Regina and Saskatoon, both on September 9.
  • In Ontario, OTEC Workforce Solutions has three cohorts scheduled to start, one on October 7 in Guelph, another on October 7 in Ottawa, and a third on November 25 in Toronto.

Newcomers interested in future sessions in any of the five participating areas can explore the program requirements and connect with their regional delivery partner here.

Hoteliers interested in participating in the program by employing program graduates are asked to contact destinationemployment@tourismhr.ca.

With success stories such as these, the program is making an impact both on the lives of newcomers and on the labour shortages challenging hospitality employers.

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