Discover exciting career paths in tourism and hospitality through the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Apprenticeship Program at Choose Chicago. The goal of this new program is to create career opportunities within the industry for individuals who identify as Black, indigenous, person of color (BIPOC). Thank you to United Airlines, who served as our corporate sponsor partner for the 2022 EDI Apprentice Program.
Check back in Fall 2023 for updates.
About the Choose Chicago EDI Apprenticeship Program
The EDI Apprenticeship Program is an exciting opportunity for emerging professionals to gain valuable insight and experience into the destination marketing and hospitality fields. Our mission is to offer on-the-job experience to those from historically underrepresented BIPOC communities, while positioning these individuals for long-term professional success in the industry.
Check back soon for more information on the 2023-2024 application deadlines.
“The tourism and hospitality industry is full of well-paying, meaningful jobs with paths towards career advancement. It is so important to ensure that historically underrepresented communities have access to careers within our exciting and growing industry. I am excited to offer the EDI Apprenticeship Program to serve as a bridge to our industry for the BIPOC community.” – Lynn Osmond, President and CEO, Choose Chicago
“We’re proud to partner with Choose Chicago as they launch the EDI Apprenticeship Program in support of their commitment to creating a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive world. Together, we’re collaborating in innovative ways to deliver on our shared vision of breaking barriers and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.” — Glenn Hollister, VP Sales Strategy & Effectiveness, United Airlines
Apprenticeship Program details
- The Apprenticeship Program includes the opportunity to experience multiple career tracks within Choose Chicago. Choose Chicago career tracks include Global Development, Sports Commission, Marketing, Partnership, and Sales & Services/ Event Management.
- All applicants must commit to a 600-hour apprenticeship (not to exceed six months unless noted) with availability to work at least 32 – 40 hours per week.
- Selected applicant will receive a paid stipend during the program (minimum $17/hour), along with transportation and meal support.
- Selected applicant must successfully pass a drug test, background check and show proof of being fully vaccinated
- Selected applicant is guaranteed employment at a partner organization upon successful completion of the program*.
- Travel may be included as part of the program. All travel-related expenses will be provided.
- All applicants must be age 21 or over and a resident of Chicago (preferred) or Illinois suburban communities.
*If a position cannot be offered with one of our corporate partners, Tourism Diversity Matters will assist Choose Chicago with job placement.
Learn more about Choose Chicago’s equity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives.
