The tourism and hospitality industries might be on the back foot right now, but they’re still looking to the future based on the dozens of employers present at the recent GMIT International Hotel School virtual Careers Fair.
More than 45 employers I the tourism and hospitality sector took part in the virtual careers fair last week, showing the students the range of opportunities that will be open to them when the sector reopens.
Employers outlined a range of options such as work placements, summer jobs and graduate employment opportunities to GMIT students and alumni.
Cáit Noone, Head of the Galway International Hotel School, is encouraged by the engagement the team have seen with this event.
“The narrative around the Tourism industry can be quite negative as COVID-19 has had a terrible impact on this global and important industry. However, this year’s careers event has seen employers register from Ireland and beyond.
“Employers are working carefully to be ready for a summer reopening and last summer saw much of the domestic tourism market head to the west and coastal regions to enjoy the summer break.”
“We have a wonderful cohort of students ready to play their role in supporting the industry and with so many alumni returning home we are confident we can find roles for everyone”.
Ciara Heneghan, who is in her 4th year of the BA in International Hotel Management, said that this year, more than ever, the Careers Fair was a great opportunity to meet with potential employers.
“I have benefitted greatly from this careers fair in the past and secured wonderful work placement opportunities. We have grown accustomed to engaging online over the last year and this year’s virtual Career’s Fair presented all options once again.”
Diarmuid Ó Conghaile, head of tourism & heritage at the hotel school said that the Career Fair has gone from strength to strength, through coordination with industry partners offering students opportunities here and abroad.
“It is the only event of its kind in Ireland that is hosted by a third level institution specifically for the Tourism and Hospitality industry.
“We were delighted to be able to host the event online this year as the industry prepares to reopen this summer”.
