The program is dedicated to assisting young people prepare for career opportunities in the tourism field and in fostering a stronger training culture within the Ontario tourism industry. To be eligible, applicants must be unemployed and out of school, aged 18 to 29, and be motivated to follow a career path in the tourism industry. Training is available for such positions as bartending, food and beverage or banquet server, food service counter attendant, front desk agent, guest services attendant, housekeeping room attendant, professional cook, local tour guide, reservation sales agent and tourism visitor information counsellor. OTEC, Job Connect and participating employers recruit and select trainees to participate in the program. OTEC and Job Connect act as program mentors and coaches for the trainee and conduct site visits during the trainee's employment.
Employers benefit in several ways.
Participants are trained according to standards set by industry. They can also take advance of career planning to help them decide which long term career path will best match their skills and ambitions. In addition, participants can network with employers and peers in tourism, earn money while they learn and have the opportunity to achieve nationally recognized professional certification.