Universities and private companies provide training for Massachusetts casino jobs
It’s no news that Massachusetts is planning a massive casino expansion. Three new resort-style casinos and a slots hall will pop up in the Bay State over the next few years, bringing significant regular revenue to a region that previously had no gambling. Still, an important question needs to be answered: Who will manage and staff these casinos?
New Plans Available in Casino Management
Russell College in Newton, Massachusetts hopes to answer that question. This fall, Russell will add a bachelor's degree program in resort and casino management. It's the first plan of its kind east of the Mississippi River and is likely to be popular as the four gambling sites are expected to create 10,000 or more gambling industry jobs.
“The university already has a strong hospitality and event management program,” said Russell President Michael Alexander. “Given the growth of the gaming industry in Massachusetts and New England, it makes sense for us to provide students with the opportunity to compete for the thousands of jobs that will be created.”
In-State Professionals
These new jobs are a big selling point in helping Massachusetts casino plans become a reality. However, there are concerns that many skilled workers will come from outside Massachusetts, as the state has neither a history of casino gambling nor training opportunities for those interested in the newly created positions; the legislation creating the casinos did not require venues to hire local People come to fill these seats.
"One of the concerns about job creation at casinos is that skilled jobs are going to people out of state," said Gaming Commission Chairman Stephen Crosby. "So building a workforce with specific skills for higher-level jobs The talent pipeline is a good thing.”
More training options
The Russell program isn't the only way government agencies and private companies are helping prepare locals for thousands of casino jobs that require training to get. The New England Casino Dealer Academy in North Attleboro, Mass., just opened a new facility for training potential dealers in blackjack, poker and other games. The state is also partnering with community colleges to create the Massachusetts Casino Career Training Academy, which will focus on job training for entry-level professionals.
Casino gambling has some negative consequences, but schools also prepare students for it. The School of Advanced and Professional Studies at UMass Boston has begun offering counseling sessions for gambling addicts. The school's dean said the plan was designed to help address health department concerns about a potential increase in gambling problems once the casinos begin operating.
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- Not just for gambling anymore: Atlantic City aims for 'destination resort' status
Source: www.casino.org
