ApprenticeshipNH and WMCC invites individuals from hospitality sector to collaborate
White Mountains Community College (WMCC) and ApprenticeshipNH – a state-wide effort that is addressing workforce needs in five core sectors of New Hampshire’s economy – invite leaders from the hospitality sector to a Business Roundtable on Tuesday, November 5 from 9:30 to 11:30 am. The Business Roundtable, taking place at WMCC’s North Conway Academic Center, 2541 White Mountain Highway, North Conway, will explore the Registered Apprenticeship model as a solution to the hospitality workforce shortage.
The ApprenticeshipNH model has helped dozens of companies in the hospitality, construction and infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, information technology and healthcare sectors hire and retain skilled employees throughout the state.
“We have heard time and time again that the hospitality sector struggles greatly to hire and retain skilled employees,” said Tamara Roberge, coordinator of workforce development and community education at WMCC. “We’d like to invite local restaurants, hotels, motels and other companies engaged in hospitality to join us for an open discussion around how we can come together and collaborate to solve this workforce shortage so we can continue to effectively support and grow this vital economic sector of the North Country.”
Experts will be on hand to discuss and offer potential solutions to workforce challenges
Experts from WMCC and ApprenticeshipNH – Greg Worthen, associate professor of baking and pastry arts at WMCC, Tamara Roberge, coordinator of workforce development and community education at WMCC, Emily Zeien, ApprenticeshipNH grant manager and Ann Banks ApprenticeshipNH workforce development administrator – will hold a discussion about workforce challenges. They will share examples of successful Registered Apprenticeship models across the state, including a newly approved Culinary Arts Apprenticeship program – a partnership between WMCC, ApprenticeshipNH and Omni Mount Washington Resort – that currently has 10 apprentices participating in the program and its first class graduating this spring. And they hope to hear from area businesses about the nature of their workforce challenges and collaboratively shape solutions. Information on how grant funding from the U.S. Department of Labor is being used to help connect businesses in New Hampshire, and in particular hospitality with NH’s community colleges will also be highlighted.
Individuals interested in attending the November 5 event are encouraged to register here. To learn more about the Business Roundtable at WMCC contact Tamara Roberge at 603-342-3062, troberge@ccsnh.edu or contact ApprenticeshipNH.
