PHILADELPHIA – A celebration honoring ten recent graduates of the City of Philadelphia’s Hospitality Careers Program (HCP) took place at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) in collaboration with the City’s Office of Workforce Development.
In June 2019, the City as a Model Employer program (CME) launched the second cohort of the five-month career pathway program at PHL. The Hospitality Careers Program prepares participants with the skills and experience required for permanent employment with the airport and other private sector businesses.
“City as Model Employer embodies the City’s commitment to prepare Philadelphians with the skills and experience they need for meaningful career opportunities,” said Sheila Ireland, Executive Director of the Office of Workforce Development. “In just one year, the Office of Workforce Development has supported career pathways and success for thousands of residents. Today’s HCP graduates are an excellent example of why our work matters.”
The graduates attained several industry-recognized credentials, including the Workplace Readiness Certificate by the Conover Company and the Hospitality Professional Course Certificate by the American Hospitality Academy.
“We are so pleased to welcome this dynamic new class of custodial workers to our team,” said PHL Chief Administrative Officer Soledad Alfaro. “One of the most impactful elements of the passenger experience is a safe and clean environment, which is why custodial work is so critical to our mission.”
“The program has given me the tools and skills to develop a successful career and increase my earning potential,” said Cohort 2 Graduate Tatyana Preston. “I now understand the value of self-awareness, how to exceed employer expectations, the importance of the customer experience and the qualities that separate good employees from great employees.”
While participating in the program, the graduates passed the Custodial Worker 1 - Airport Specialty civil service exam in mid-October. Each of the ten graduates will be promoted from Custodial Services Trainee to Custodial Worker 1 and begin permanent employment on November 17.