Workforce

Apprenticeships upskill employees, let them earn while they learn

The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation's apprenticeship program offers restaurant and hospitality workers an opportunity to advance their careers.
NRA
Kadeeja Baker, head chef, Maru Sushi / Photograph courtesy of the National Restaurant Association

The spotlight’s shining on National Apprenticeship Week, the U.S. Department of Labor’s annual celebration of employee opportunity and advancement. 

But this week and every week, the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation offers myriad pathways for restaurant and hospitality workers, young adults and veterans to advance their careers through tailored apprenticeships.
 
Launched in 2017, the Foundation’s Hospitality Sector Registered Apprenticeship program, developed in partnership with the 
American Hotel & Lodging Association Foundation, offers two tracks:

  • Restaurant management
  • Lodging management

After program participants complete these competency-based apprenticeship programs, they are certified and typically see a 14% increase in wages.

More than 2,500 apprentices are earning while they learn, and the program boasts an 80% retention rate.

The hospitality program is available in 44 states at more than 300 apprenticeship sites. Recently, the Foundation was awarded a $9.2 million multiyear contract from the U.S. Department of Labor to expand the program. Find out more here.

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