Can you picture yourself with a career in the vibrant and growing Retail, Accommodation, Food Service and Tourism Sectors?
Job seekers in Castlegar and region are invited to check out the RAFT Program (Retail, Accommodations and Food Service and Tourism), a free five-week training and certification program offered by Kootenay Career Development Society starting March 12. All are welcome to attend a public RAFT Information Session being held Monday, Feb. 26, 1 pm at the KCDS Work BC office 1016 4th Street in Castlegar.
RAFT prepares individuals to work in settings such as restaurants, hotels, retail stores and other businesses serving the tourism economy. Monday through Thursday, from 9:30-2:30, participants will explore their leadership qualities and career goals, build computer skills, complete certification like Super Host and Food Safe and as well, will prepare resumes and make business connections that will help them land the job they want.
The Program is free and offers travel and child care subsidies and lunches. To apply, participants must meet criteria including being un-or-under employed with no EI claims within the past three years.
In addition to helping job seekers, the RAFT program benefits local businesses and employers by helping prospective employees increase industry-specific skills that are in demand.
“Tourism and retail are thriving in the West Kootenay, and employers are looking for skilled people to fill open positions,” said Katt Britton, project manager at Kootenay Career Development Society. She added, “In addition to gaining the certifications necessary for employment in these sectors, the RAFT program focuses on helping job-seekers build exceptional job search, customer service and administrative skills.”
The RAFT program will run March 12-April 12 in Castlegar, and May 7 to June 7 in Nelson.
For more information, or to inquire about eligibility requirements, please contact Kootenay Career Development Society at raft@kcds.ca or 250-352-5200 ext 316.
Eligible candidates must provide a current resume and a cover letter that demonstrates their suitability for the program.
Kootenay Career Development Society is a non-profit organization that empowers individuals, employers and communities economically and socially through career development, employment counselling, and human resource planning. RAFT is funded in whole or in part by the Canada-BC Job grant fund.