Launched in April 2009, the Essential Skills for the East Kootenay Tourism Industry Program (ESEKTI) is part of the SkillsPlus Initiative and is funded by the Canada – B.C. Labour Market Agreement. The program is being managed by Steele O’Neil and Associates in conjunction with College of the Rockies (COTR).
The program will be delivered to 80 employees in up to 25 participating small businesses with a preference to those with less than 50 employees. It consists of eight free workshops (24hrs). These workshops are customized to address the needs of the tourism and hospitality workplace. They address tourism essential skills training (communication skills, critical thinking, numeracy, writing and reading), customer service, service across cultures (a Superhost workshop), teamwork, computer skills and an introduction to online learning.
There will also be on-site employer training (16 hrs) provided by the employer during an appropriate time and relevant to the workplace.
Finally, there is a certificate option. Selected employees can register for additional free training through COTR and receive a College Continuing Education Certificate.
Workshops start in June 2009 in Kimberley and Cranbrook and in November for Invermere, Golden and Fernie. They are filling up fast so don’t miss your chance to nominate an employee. Call Schaun Goodeve, program coordinator today at 250-489-4180 or 250-417-1906 (cell) or by email at schaun.essentialskills@gmail.com
