Are you aiming for a rewarding career in the vibrant and ever-growing retail, accommodation, food service or tourism sectors? Job seekers in Castlegar and region are invited to check out the RAFT program, a five-week training and certification program offered by Kootenay Career Development Society starting March 30 in Castlegar.
RAFT prepares individuals to work in restaurants, hotels, retail stores and other hospitality and tourism settings. Participants can gain certifications like Serving it Right, FoodSafe, WHMIS, SuperHost and Occupational First Aid Level 1. You can learn how to create effective resumes, conduct job searches, build networks and make industry connections that will help you land the job you want. The program is free and offers travel, food, clothing and child care subsidies. Healthy lunches are also served.
To apply, you must be legally entitled to work in Canada as a citizen/permanent resident or protected person; not a full time student; and unemployed or underemployed.
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,” says Katt Britton, project manager at Kootenay Career Development Society. “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.”
One participant said: “The program changed my life. It gave me the skills, connections and confidence to go out and get a job.”
The RAFT program will run until April 30 in Castlegar.
Interested in learning more? Attend an information session on March 17 at 1 p.m. at the WorkBC Centre at 1016 4th Street in Castlegar. Light refreshments will be served.
For more information, or to inquire about eligibility requirements, contact Kootenay Career Development Society at 250-352-6200 ext. 316 or raft@kcds.ca. Eligible candidates must provide a current resume and a cover letter that demonstrates their suitability for the program.