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Young Caymanians considering careers in hospitality are encouraged to apply for the Dart Hospitality Training Programme, which provides exposure to the industry through on-the-job training at some of the finest hotels located in Grand Cayman.

The three-month training programme that begins in May offers a multi-faceted approach to the local hospitality industry. Beginning with two weeks of immersive learning led by faculty from the Florida-based Lynn University, trainees then embark on a journey that sees them rotating through various departments across the Dart hospitality portfolio of hotels. They are then assigned to complete their training within one of three key areas within the hotels – guest services, food and beverage services, and pool and beach/recreation.

Applications are now being accepted from Caymanians aged 17 to 30 until 6 April 2025. Upon successful completion of the programme, trainees are eligible to apply for full-time positions at participating hotels.

Dianne Conolly, Dart’s hospitality programme manager, who oversees the training, says it’s an opportunity not to be missed. “Hospitality is a fast-paced and dynamic industry and through this programme, young people are able to gain vast exposure to the different tiers of hotels and the variety of positions that are available to them,” she said.

“Since we started the programme in 2022, we’ve been impressed with the calibre of talented young people who have gone through the Dart Hospitality Training Programme. A number of our applicants have progressed into meaningful careers utilising the skills developed during their three months with us. Some of them have gone on to receive promotions,” Conolly said.

Dart’s Grand Cayman portfolio includes five-star properties like The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman and Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa, along with Hotel Indigo® Grand Cayman and Hampton by Hilton Grand Cayman. Staff at these hotels provide hands-on guidance to trainees to help them get acquainted with the wide variety of opportunities that are available to them.

“As the owner of such a diverse portfolio, we are pleased to be in a position to provide this opportunity to our young people to set them on the path to successful and sustainable careers in the hospitality industry,” said Joanne Lawson, Dart’s chief of staff and chief administrative officer.

“The hospitality industry is evolving rapidly, with new processes, job streams and technologies continually being introduced. We recognise the importance of human capital planning and this programme has proven that it helps equip our young people with the tools they need to thrive as ambassadors for the Cayman Islands tourism product,” Lawson added.

Along with the opportunity for full-time employment, recent graduates have benefited from training exchanges with Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla, another Dart-owned property.

For more information, including how to apply for the Dart Hospitality Training Programme, visit: https://www.dart.ky/hospitality.