Students showcase skills gained from program oriented to restaurants
Students of the Restaurantworx Program served up a healthy order of appreciation Tuesday.
The Restaurantworx program began in New Glasgow in November 2018 as an initiative of Futureworx, which offers workplace essential and employability skills development with an orientation in culinary skills.
The program includes on-thejob training that connects students to entry-level employment opportunities while meeting the growing HR needs of employers.
In appreciation for the support from guest speakers and various local employers who provided work placements, the students showcased their culinary skills and talents at an appreciation brunch on Wednesday.
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“We have an excellent group of students who are keen, motivated and passionate about working in the restaurant industry,” said Joe Crossman, professional development instructor for Futureworx. “This brunch is an opportunity for them to showcase their talents and hard work.”
The program’s training included food safety, cooking methods, equipment operation, front of house procedures, communications and customer service.
“It has taken me out of my comfort zone or as I would say, out of my bubble; it helped me realize what I can do in life when I put my mind to it and push myself to do my best,” said student Sandra Walsh.
Crossman said the Pictou County restaurant community has been instrumental in the success of the program.
“It’s amazing,” said Marty Veenhuis, the owner of the Pizza Delight, “what comes out of investing in people. Everyone deserves the chance to be the best they can be and live up their potential.”
Pam MacDonald, a technical instructor and Red Seal chef with Futureworx, said having employers bring their knowledge to the program makes a difference in their learning.
“Having on-the-job training opportunities is essential to students learning and understanding what it takes to work in this field,” she said.
Futureworx is a non-profit organization that specializes in providing employment-assistance programs and services. Futureworx offers industry-based employment programs that respond to the employer needs in various sectors.