Goodwill Program:  Occupational Skills Training 

“It’s never too late to learn skills for a new career.  I now have hope and once again look forward to the future.”

When Romia entered the field of computer operations twenty years ago, he was confident that he had found a career that would provide secure employment for his working life. “As technology and industry practices changed, my job and career just went away,” Romia said. As with many other displaced workers, Romia found that his experience and training were in a field no longer in demand by employers. For several years Romia worked at jobs that had no future or challenge. He knew he needed to find a new career, but was unsure where to turn.  

 Then, Romia saw a flyer on his church’s bulletin board about Goodwill’s Hospitality Training, a 6-week program that trains individuals for entry level positions in the hospitality field.  “I went online to learn more about Goodwill’s Hospitality Training and filled out an application. Someone from Goodwill called me immediately and invited me to come in for an interview. I was surprised to learn that hospitality was Charlotte’s fastest growing industry and that there are many opportunities in the field,” Romia said.

On December 9, 2005, Romia graduated from Goodwill’s Hospitality Training Program. He looks forward to starting his career at the front desk of one of Charlotte’s hotels. “I’ve found that hotels promote from within.  If you work hard, you can succeed in this field. When I entered the program, I had no idea that the hospitality field was as big and diverse as it is.” Romia said.  

Traditionally, students of each class elect one individual to speak at graduation.   Romia was chosen to be the representative and speaker for his class. 

"I was pleased to have the opportunity to tell how Goodwill’s Hospitality Training Program has already made a dramatic change in my life.  I now have hope and once again look forward to the future,” Romia said. 

Romia also had a message for those who are unemployed because their job is no longer in demand:  "It’s never too late to learn the skills for a new career," Romia said.