Every region in Ontario is faced with unique challenges – especially during this post-pandemic climate. Challenges faced by one region may not be faced by another. This is why Tourism SkillsNet Ontario (TSNO) Regional Working Groups have the mandate to provide local perspective and guidance to the Tourism SkillsNet Ontario network on policies, procedures, and initiatives. TSNO Regional Working Groups meet quarterly to discuss and collaborate on action plans that address challenges such as labour shortages, gaps and opportunities in skills training and so much more. It’s an opportunity for business owners and community stakeholders in their designated region to meet, discuss, learn, share, help and grow.

TSNO Regional Working Groups aim to:

• Build and sustain partnerships that identify and address shared sectorial workforce development needs and priorities in Ontario’s tourism and hospitality sector.
• Connect supply and demand channels through community engagement by bringing together stakeholders to share best practices, champion local efforts, enhance communications, and pursue grassroots collaboration to accelerate regional recovery strategies.
• Strategize on the dissemination of information, including trends and real-time data and forecasting models, to the local businesses and community stakeholders.
• Support employers in their recruitment and retention needs through access to training opportunities and best practice sharing.
• Continuously identify and communicate barriers and opportunities in the region, including establishing regional readiness and identifying organizations that can support new project activities.

These regional working groups meet quarterly to identify local needs and priorities, share resources and data insights, and participate in discussions that align strategic workforce development initiatives with the regions’ needs.