Workforce Development is one of the four pillars of Regional Tourism Organization 7 and plays a critical role in strengthening the tourism sector in BruceGreySimcoe. With more than 3,300 tourism businesses across the region, building a skilled, adaptable workforce supports business success, community well-being, and long-term industry sustainability. It also helps position tourism jobs and careers as viable and rewarding opportunities across the region.

RTO7 focuses on practical workforce initiatives designed to support the tourism industry at every stage. This includes delivering training that builds skills and strengthens workforce readiness, while also promoting tourism jobs and careers to grow a strong pipeline for future positions. Programs continue to evolve in response to workforce challenges such as labour shortages and rising costs, with a growing focus on employee retention in tourism.

This work goes beyond training. RTO7 collaborates with municipalities, educational institutions, and aligned organizations to strengthen the workforce pipeline across BruceGreySimcoe’s tourism sector. This includes increasing awareness of tourism careers in schools, creating pathways for hands-on learning, and supporting businesses with tools and coaching that improve workplace practices. Sustainability and inclusivity are built into this approach, helping shape a workforce that is resilient, adaptable, and ready for the future.