Glen Innes student takes advantage of hospitality skills shortage

The hospitality head teacher at Glen Innes TAFE believes the shortage of quality hospitality workers has now hit 'critical levels', with the industry plagued by a skills shortfall locally and Australia-wide.

"According to Australian Industry and Skills Committee research into hospitality, the food and beverage services industries have grown strongly over the past two decades and will continue to grow over the coming years," he said.

"AISC is predicting a 12 per cent total workforce increase. This will take the total Australian food and beverage workforce past 970,000 people by 2023, which means the skills shortage is going to continue.

"What this also means is there are lots of great employment opportunities available for people who are looking to work as café and restaurant managers, baristas and bar attendants, and chefs, in a really hands-on, exciting and rewarding industry where no two days are ever the same."

Glen Innes student Brodie Roberts is hoping to cash in on demand.

The 24-year-old has completed a certificate 2 in hospitality and certificate 2 in kitchen operations, and is currently completing a certificate 3 in hospitality at the Glen Innes' TAFE.

"I have a passion for the industry and really enjoy learning to make and present different meals and drinks," he said.

"I'm learning lots of different cooking styles and I hope to use the skills I'm learning at TAFE NSW to travel around the world working in hospitality."