TAFE Queensland is working with businesses to provide locals with the skills they need to pursue a career in hospitality and fill a growing demand for workers in the Bundaberg Region.
According to data published by the Department of Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business, employment opportunities in the Wide Bay’s accommodation and food services sector are set to increase by 9.9 per cent over the next five years.
In an effort to address the demand, TAFE Queensland Hospitality teacher Jeff Messitt is consulting with local businesses, tailoring the training he delivers to suit the techniques, trends and technology currently being used in the workplace.
“It’s incredibly important to TAFE Queensland that we deliver training that fulfills the needs of industry, so I work with businesses to gain their input and to ensure I am up-to-date with the latest developments in hospitality,” Mr Messitt said.
“As a result, our Certificate III in Hospitality program offers high quality, hands-on training that provides students with the skills they need to succeed in the industry – whether they’re looking to work as a barista or in five-star hotels.
“Our students graduate not only with their Certificate III in Hospitality, their Barista Certificate and their Responsible Service of Alcohol, but with the confidence and experience they need to smoothly transition into the workplace.”
Mr Messitt said in addition to consulting with businesses to ensure their future employees’ skills are current, TAFE Queensland could also work around them to train existing staff.
“The Certificate III in Hospitality is delivered two-and-a-half days a week over 18 weeks; however we can tailor study plans to suit students already working in the industry,” Mr Messitt said.
Passion for the industry a driving force behind teaching
Having had his own extensive career in hospitality, Mr Messitt’s passion for the industry and in-depth knowledge is already an asset to his students.
He’s done everything, from collecting glasses in a nightclub, to owning a 14 bedroom boutique hotel in London’s Wimbledon Village, to running his own global hospitality staff recruitment business.
With the support of local businesses, Mr Messitt has been able to provide unbeatable training to his students that has led to many successful employment outcomes for both students and local businesses.
“Hospitality offers career opportunities like no other industry. There is so much space for personal growth and an endless opportunity to travel,” Mr Messitt said.
“That’s the most exciting thing about hospitality – you get to meet wonderful people from diverse backgrounds that you otherwise wouldn’t get the chance to.”
Mr Messitt’s experience also extends to the tourism industry, with four years of managing Flight Centre Hinkler among his achievements.
“TAFE Queensland’s Bundaberg campus now also offers a Certificate III in Tourism, so local students now have the opportunity to gain multiple qualifications that will enable them to make the most of the thriving accommodation and food services sector,” Mr Messitt said.
To find out more about how TAFE Queensland can help you kick-start your career in hospitality or tourism call 1300 308 233 or visit tafeqld.edu.au.
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