In an effort to address the workforce challenges the hospitality industry is currently facing, Visit York County hosted an interactive “Lunch & Learn” to connect local hospitality employers with programs to support talent recruitment, retention, training, and development.   

The speed-networking style event facilitated five-minute discussions between employers and workforce resource organizations, allowing employers to gain an understanding of new workforce solutions and how the programs can be implemented.  

SC Works Catawba, Apprenticeship Carolina, York Technical College, Rock Hill Applied Technology Center, and South Carolina Small Business Development Center were among the workforce organizations represented at the event.

In early 2021, Visit York County launched a workforce development initiative specific to hotels, restaurants, and attractions.

“We have found that there is a lack of awareness, understanding, and accessibility from both our employers and our workforce resource organizations,” said Billy Dunlap, President & CEO of Visit York County. “Events like this Lunch & Learn serve to strengthen local connections to talent resources that grow the hospitality sector and increase economic impact.”

Hospitality employers in attendance included the Anne Springs Close Greenway, Strand Hospitality Group, Fishmarket Bar & Grill, and Dust Off Brewing, among others.

To continue the momentum, Visit York County will be organizing follow-up events including a Job Fair.