EMPOWERING ONTARIO'S WORKFORCE

THROUGH SKILLS TRAINING
FUTURE-READY

SKILLS FOR A

STRONGER

TOMORROW

Base31 is proud to launch The Business of Hospitality, a free professional development program taught by and designed to strengthen leadership, operational, and guest-service skills across Prince Edward County and Ontario’s hospitality sector.

The program offers two learning streams — one for individuals who are currently employed and looking to expand their skillset, and another for those who are unemployed or underemployed and seeking valuable training to help launch or advance their careers in hospitality provided by Loyalist College instructors.

Through practical workshops, group discussions, and keynote presentations from industry professionals, participants will develop both guest-experience and business-focused expertise. Each session equips learners with actionable tools that can be applied immediately in customer-facing roles, operations, or management.

This Employment Ontario program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.

THE BUSINESS OF HOSPITALITY

January 19 + 20, 2026
January 27 + 28, 2026

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS:

Time: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Location: In-Person at Base31 at 26-343 County Road 22, Picton, ON K0K 2T0 (transportation supports available)

Participation Eligibility:
Anyone who meets these eligibility criteria can apply:

  • Is an Ontario resident
  • Currently be employed on a full or part time basis

We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including youth (15-29), women, Indigenous community members, racialized individuals, persons with disabilities, newcomers, and people who have experienced barriers to employment.

PROGRAM FOCUS:

This free Two-Day Hospitality Course is designed to strengthen the business and operational understanding of professionals working in the hospitality industry. Through an engaging mix of discussion, case studies, and practical exercises, participants explore key topics such as guest experience management, event coordination, financial operations, budgeting, and business fundamentals. The program focuses on developing well-rounded, service-minded professionals who understand how daily operations connect to broader business goals, enhancing both customer satisfaction and organizational performance.

Training Modules Include:

Day 1: The Guest Experience

  • Designing the Guest Experience
  • Fundamentals of Event Planning
  • Service Recovery + Escalation Management

Day 2: The Business of Hospitality

  • Budgeting Basics
  • Record Keeping + Accounting
  • Financial Analysis + Decision-Making

Each day also features a keynote presentation that connects classroom learning to real-world experience through storytelling, insight, and practical advice from leaders in the field.

Upcoming Keynote Speakers:

January 19: Maria Hristova, Co-Owner and Head of Retail from Kinsip House of Fine Spirits
January 20: Sarah Fox, Executive Director at Visit the County

HOSPITALITY CAREER LAUNCH PROGRAM

February 2-13, 2026

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS:

Time: Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Location: In-Person at Base31 at 26-343 County Road 22, Picton, ON K0K 2T0 (transportation supports available)

Participation Eligibility:
Anyone who meets these eligibility criteria can apply:

  • Is an Ontario resident
  • Currently unemployed or unemployed and seeking an apprenticeship
  • Have a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN)

We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including youth (15-29), women, Indigenous community members, racialized individuals, persons with disabilities, newcomers, and people who have experienced barriers to employment.

Who Should Join:

  • Committed to full participation in every module
  • Eager to complete hands-on tasks and assessments
  • Professional, respectful, and ready to collaborate
  • Comfortable in hospitality-appropriate attire for practical exercises

Your Career Path After Graduation:
Graduates leave prepared for entry-level roles such as:

  • Guest Services Representative
  • Event Assistant or Event Support Staff
  • Front Desk Support or Administrative Host
  • Food & Beverage Attendant or Support Staff

Launch your hospitality career with confidence—gain the skills, experience, and opportunities to succeed in a fast-paced, rewarding industry.

PROGRAM FOCUS:

This free two-week intensive program provides foundational training for individuals seeking entry into the hospitality industry. Participants explore guest experience, communication, financial and operational basics, inclusive service practices, workplace safety, and event coordination. Hands-on simulations, role-plays, budgeting activities, POS exercises, accessibility audits, and event-planning tasks build job readiness and confidence.

Topics Include:

  • Day 1: Introduction to Hospitality
  • Day 2: Guest Experience Essentials
  • Day 3: Service Recovery & Professional Communication
  • Day 4: Financial & Operational Basics
  • Day 5: POS & Daily Operations
  • Day 6: Cultural Awareness & Inclusive Service
  • Day 7: Accessibility & AODA
  • Day 8: Safety & Hazard Awareness
  • Day 9: Emergency Response & Crisis Management
  • Day 10: Events & Experience Management

HOW TO APPLY

Ready to take the next step? Applications are now open for all upcoming training sessions.
For questions or support, please contact:
Molly Gladstone
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (613) 242-0894

This Employment Ontario program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.

WHY BASE31

Base31 is more than just a training location — it’s a cultural destination in the heart of Prince Edward County. Situated on a 70-acre former WWII air training base, Base31 has been reimagined into a hub of live events, festivals, food and drink, heritage, and innovation.

With a focus on economic development, creative placemaking, and community building, Base31 is committed to shaping a stronger and more opportunity-rich future for the hospitality sector across Ontario.