The Tribune

BAHA Mar has launched its Hospitality Academy in a bid to equip Bahamians with the necessary skills and expertise for a career in the resort and tourism industries.

The Baha Mar Hospitality Academy is a four-week programme aimed at developing future workers. The programmes will offer a variety of courses, ranging from personal and professional development to customer service, plus practical exposure to all areas of luxury hotel operations.

Select courses will offer targeted training for specific careers in food and beverage, housekeeping and guest services. Courses will also include instructions on resume writing and interviewing to improve prospects for securing employment in the resort industry.

"We've made it a priority to dedicate significant resources towards training Bahamians to give them the skills they'll need for a successful career in the hospitality industry," said Graeme Davis, Baha Mar's president.

"Baha Mar Hospitality Academy is representative of our commitment to the Bahamas and its people, as well as their career development and well-being."

The training programme is designed to prepare potential recruits for positions at Baha Mar, as the destination resort ramps up recruitment ahead of its full opening in Spring 2018, but is open to all Bahamians - even those seeking successful careers elsewhere in the hospitality industry.

Currently at over 3,000 employees, Baha Mar will increase its workforce to 4,000 by the end of this year, and is on track to double current numbers - reaching up to 6,000 associates - by the grand opening in April 2018.

There is no guarantee of employment upon completion of the Hospitality Academy programme.

In addition, all students will have access to an on-site job fair for Grand Hyatt, SLS Baha Mar, Rosewood Baha Mar, and Grand Hyatt Baha Mar during the four-week programme.