March 2009 |  | VOLUME 5 ISSUE 2 |
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Hospitality Careers -- In Demand Now!Promoting Excellence in the Service Industries In fall 2008, Northampton Community College identified a need for a regional training institute to promote excellence within the hospitality industry of the greater Lehigh Valley and the Poconos. To address this need, the Hospitality Career Institute (HCI) was established to increase overall service excellence in all areas of hospitality and to accommodate a growing industrial sector within the region. By working closely with industry leaders, HCI’s new curriculum exceeds industry standards and provides the tools for applicants to be successful in their careers. The Center is offering flexible training options with:
It is also filling a strategic niche by:
Careers here in hospitality, food service and retail operations are growing in a region where the economic drivers are changing to include tourism as a major player. In the Lehigh Valley, more than 84 percent of jobs are in the service sector—some 300,000 jobs—up from 72 percent in 1990. Forecast growth in the leisure and hospitality sector is set at 19.0 percent through 2014, with more than 1,000 jobs planned when the Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem opens in 2009. This sector continues to have a large number of lucrative positions such as chefs, hotel managers and event planners. Food servers, utility workers, housekeepers, front desk clerks, banquet workers, sales representatives, hosts and hostesses and line cooks are always needed. Salaries and wages are quite varied in the leisure & hospitality services sector and range from a front desk clerk earning $7.15 -- $13.00 per hour to food service supervisors and managers at $20,000 -- $50,000. Sources: Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry Skill-Based Training Goal: To supply individuals working in or planning to work in the hospitality industry with skill-based training classes in important industry topics. Until the launch of HCI, leisure and hospitality employers have not had the benefit of a local educational institution devoting resources and programs to benefit their industry. In 2009, local businesses will have that resource when HCI launches its first public workshop. HCI workshops are:
Training Objectives
HCI recognizes that certain credentials need to be satisfied by local establishments to continue operation. HCI has researched and launched certification workshops to specifically meet these needs. Certification workshops include:
HCI recognizes the need for a well-trained and motivated workforce and has developed workshops to prepare new hires while updating the skills of existing employees for possible advancement within their organizations. Career Exploration Workshops Goal: To offer career exploration classes for individuals currently employed within the hospitality industry or those exploring alternatives and thinking of joining the industry. HCI has identified hospitality job growth areas and has developed workshops to educate potential entrants on the background and skills needed to enter those fields. Workshops are presented by successful, local entrepreneurs and help to dispel myths and highlight benefits of the industry. Career Exploration Categories
Workshop Features
Key Benefits
Customized Training Goal: To design, develop and implement training programs targeted to the specific needs of an organization within the hospitality industry. HCI can help companies improve communication, enhance customer service and build a structure for team and leadership development. Key Features
Contact Information David F. Schweiger,
Director Fowler Family Southside Center |
