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EDI Apprenticeship Program

 

Discover exciting career paths in tourism and hospitality through the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Apprenticeship Program at Choose Chicago. The goal of this new program is to create career opportunities within the industry for individuals who identify as Black, indigenous, person of color (BIPOC). Choose Chicago is pleased to offer the 2023-2024 apprenticeship program in partnership with United Airlines and Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA).

View program summary   |   Download application

Please send completed applications to resumes@choosechicago.com

“The tourism and hospitality industry is full of well-paying, meaningful jobs with paths towards career advancement. It is so important to ensure that historically underrepresented communities have access to careers within our exciting and growing industry. I am excited to offer the EDI Apprenticeship Program to serve as a bridge to our industry for the BIPOC community.”

– Lynn Osmond, President and CEO, Choose Chicago

The PCMA Foundation is passionate about powering the future of the global business events industry. Providing a future leader with access to the amazing teams and experiences at Choose Chicago, PCMA and United Airlines is the foundation for a journey full of possibilities and transformation with access and exposure to this wonderful industry.

– Sherrif Karamat, CAE, PCMA and CEMA President and CEO

We’re proud to partner with Choose Chicago again this year and support their EDI Apprenticeship Program to create a more diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace. This collaboration is just one example of how we take action to build equitable access to careers in aviation.

– Glenn Hollister, Vice President, Sales Strategy and Effectiveness at United Airlines

About the Choose Chicago EDI Apprenticeship Program

The EDI Apprenticeship Program is designed to expose individuals who have a passion for the Hospitality and Tourism Industry with a paid career exploration opportunity and valuable hands on cross-training experience. Throughout various departments of the host and partner organizations, apprentices will hone their skills in areas like marketing, sales, events, and communications. Industry partners provide rotation opportunities resulting in a unique apprenticeship experience.

Apprenticeship Program details

  • The 2023-2024 Apprenticeship Program includes the opportunity to receive:
    • An overview of Choose Chicago and the impact of tourism in our local economy
    • Career tracks focused on event planning and event operations with the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) and United Airlines.
  • All applicants must commit to a 600-hour apprenticeship (not to exceed six months unless noted) with availability to work at least 32 – 40 hours per week.
  • Selected applicant will receive a paid stipend during the program (minimum $17/hour), along with transportation and meal support.
  • Selected applicant must successfully pass a drug test, background check and show proof of being fully vaccinated.
  • Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship program, (1) selected applicant will be offered full-time employment as a coordinator level full time position at PCMA.
  • Travel will be included as part of the program. All travel-related expenses will be included.
  • All applicants must be age 21 or over and a resident of Chicago (preferred) or Illinois suburban communities.

*If a position cannot be offered with one of our corporate partners, Tourism Diversity Matters will assist Choose Chicago with job placement.

Learn more about Choose Chicago’s equity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives.

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