Eight more graduates celebrate HEAT training

Eight new graduates celebrated completion of training to work in the tourism and hospitality sectors through H.E.A.T. (Helping Employers Acquire Talent) training.

The participants received Smart Serve, Service Excellence and Safe Food Handlers certifications, along with “soft skills” training. The group also toured some of the County’s main attractions as part of the Tourism Ambassador Training, completed mock interviews, and were inspired by guest speakers from the local hospitality and tourism sector.

Similar to the first group of graduates, this group consisted of individuals of various ages and life experiences. Participants acknowledged the course covers a variety of training, was informative and hands-on, and that they learned a great deal about Prince Edward County and what makes it a tourist destination like no other.

Katy Mitchell, Career Edge Employment Services Co-ordinator and program lead, said with each group, the program improves and the participants and employers all reap the rewards.

“If you asked a crowd of people what challenges we face in this community, you would have no shortage of answers. It is always easier to identify challenges; to see the roadblocks in the way. What is more difficult is to roll up your sleeves and be part of the solution. This room is filled with people who are part of the solution. In different ways, and for different reasons, but those differences complement each other and help us to see the gaps and bridge them,” she said.

“Research programs like the Sector Partnership Planning Grant and pilot programs like SkillsAdvance Ontario provided the framework and funding for H.E.A.T., which allows us to create programming that is reflective of the needs of the local business community and support those looking for meaningful employment.”

The project has also drawn interest from local politicians and stakeholders.

Merrilee Fullerton, Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities, sent a letter of greetings to the graduates of the program.

“By stepping up and addressing a local labour market challenge through tailored skills training, you’re making sure more people and businesses get a good taste of Prince Edward County,” she wrote. “I wish all the partners involved in the H.E.A.T. project continued success for the future. Thank you all for helping us create good jobs and making sure Ontario is open for business.”

David Joyce presented the graduates with certificates on behalf of MPP Todd Smith.

“As the Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation, Trade and Production, this is exactly the kind of thing that MPP Smith would want, and he echoes Merrilee Fullerton in that Ontario is open for business.”

The next group of new H.E.A.T. participants will start training Jan. 14 and graduate Jan. 25. To sign up for another group or ask for more information, contact Barb Miller, H.E.A.T. Facilitator or Susan Scott, H.E.A.T. Job Coach at 613-476-6456 ext. 674 or at barbm@careeredge.on.ca or susans@careeredge.on.ca .

The Employment Ontario project is funded in part by the federal and provincial governments.