Published: 05 July 2021
The expansion of training partnership will inspire the next generation of tourism and culinary superstars by making careers in tourism and hospitality the top choice for high school students.
FutureNow will work with Tourism WA to develop career programs for high-school students, to help address a current workforce shortage by highlighting the vibrant career opportunities in the respective industries.
The partnership includes the expansion of the Chef Ambassador program – an initiative which was adopted by Tourism WA in 2017. The latest program will upskill more than 1500 students and 45 teachers.
Tourism WA Acting Managing Director Derryn Belford said the new partnership was a boost for the future tourism and hospitality workforce.
“Inspiring our young people to consider an exciting career in tourism or hospitality ensures these jobs are filled in the future with well-trained individuals who are eager to excel in their work,” Derryn said.
“It’s one of several initiatives being delivered through Tourism WA to address the workforce concerns across the industry, including our Job Connect program which, to date, has included international students and job seekers in Kununurra.”
Over the next two years, the FutureNow partnership will also include:
• Promotion of the tourism and hospitality industries through interactive demonstrations at the Skills West Careers Expo, at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre on 26-28 August 2021.
• In-school presentations to promote career opportunities in the industry.
FutureNow CEO Julie Hobbs says the training council is thrilled to work with Tourism WA to deliver these programs.
“FutureNow welcomes the significant investment TourismWA is making to build a resilient and skilled hospitality and tourism workforce,” she said.
“We are delighted to be partnering with TourismWA and the secondary and training sectors to present positive information about the opportunities associated with hospitality, tourism and events careers.”
Interested schools can email FutureNow CEO Julie Hobbs at jhobbs@futurenow.org.au.