30 May 2007
HTA Addresses Skills Shortage With New Program
The Futures Employment Program is an industry initiative, which allows high-school students to undertake a school-based apprenticeship within the growing tourism and hospitality industries.
Designed to address the skill shortage in the tourism and hospitality industries, participants can utilise the Futures Program as a stepping stone to higher education, apprenticeships or full – time employment.
A key benefit of the program, HTA will fund the student wages for one shift per week for up to six months – at no cost to the hospitality establishment. Students participating in the program also attend intensive paid training at HTA during school holidays to enhance their skill development all while working towards nationally recognised competencies and qualifications.
The Queensland tourism and hospitality industry, the state’s second largest export earner, continues to experience growth, employing more than 136,000 people and contributing more than $8.4 billion to the Queensland economy.
Students considering their future options are being encouraged to look to the tourism and hospitality industries to fulfil their career aspirations. HTA CEO, Phillip Charlton said the undertaking of formal training and education within the tourism and hospitality industries provides students with job security, portability and financial stability for the future.
“The Futures Employment Program contributes to the development of young persons allowing them to mature within a business environment and be exposed to the realities and expectations of the industry.”
“This program is a win – win for the industry and the students; with hospitality establishments able to fill skills gaps and students having the opportunity to learn in a supportive, exciting and challenging work environment,” said Mr Charlton.
Hospitality establishments and students wanting to find out more information about the Futures Employment Program can visit www.hta.org.au or phone 1800 068 693.
HTA is a not-for-profit organisation created by the hospitality industry to service the recruitment, training and employment needs of the industry. HTA employs more than 400 apprentices annually and provides training to over 600 international students and 2500 domestic students annually in certificate and diploma programs. As Queensland’s largest employer of apprentice chefs, HTA is able to draw on its strong local and international networks to provide employment opportunities to students.
For further information and interviews contact Mr Phillip Carlton, CEO, 3872 4200
For further images contact Lizelle Bird, Marketing Coordinator, 3872 4200
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