ORANJESTAD, Aruba (October 31, 2023) – Supervisors and managers are already implementing and seeing the impact of the CHTA Education Foundation’s Caribbean Supercharged Service training delivered in October through an industry-wide initiative hosted by the Aruba Hotel & Tourism Association (AHATA).
Delivered in seven two-day bootcamps, 75 supervisors and 56 managers from branded and boutique resorts, timeshare properties, rental homes, fine dining, chic fast foods, casinos and private activity companies participated in the interactive program.
“It was an excellent three weeks of learning, upskilling, confidence building and practical application,” said trainer Louise John of Talkabout-Earth Solutions. “Each participant had a two-day bootcamp and a seven-day assignment to successfully complete the program.”
Through anonymous feedback general managers from participating properties and supervisors shared their views on the bootcamp.
“My managers are already using the techniques learned with their supervisors and seeing more compliance to standards,” a general manager (GM) stated.
“The supervisors found the practical techniques and how-to ideas really useful and have given good feedback on holding their teams accountable. I’m ready to send all my other supervisors,” another GM shared.
“The positive energy in my department is changing our vibe and we all like it, small standards corrections have happened easily, yet firmly – thank you,” shared a participating manager.
“Wow! I’ve used the techniques you gave us for a week and an employee that always checked what I said with my manager is now energetically working to standard and engages with me. It’s great,” a participating supervisor said on their feedback form.
“It is heartening to hear the stories of the participants’ dedication, commitment to the intense training process and being change agents at their workplaces,” said Karolin Troubetzkoy, Chairwoman of the Education Foundation.
On Thursday, October 26, 2023, a closing celebration was held for the participants at the La Cabana Beach Resort.
AHATA President and CEO, Tisa LaSorte said they were “delighted that such a large group of supervisors and managers participated in the training in order to maximise the highest productivity of their staff.” This, she added, was a signal of their commitment.
Minister of Tourism, Dangui Oduber sent his apologies as he was unable to attend the closing, but added he was “very proud of each and every supervisor and manager who took part in the very extensive program of upskilling.”
In delivering her congratulations, Ronella Croes, CEO of the Aruba Tourist Authority said “we commend all of you for attending this training. Aruba’s top three things include people. Hospitality is part of Arubans’ DNA, but we must always stand ready to sharpen our knives. As Arubans we have very strong basics in hospitality, but we need to ever lift ourselves, monitor trends and serve our guests with excellence. The Tourism Authority is honored to work for you, and we are honored to see such talent as in this room working for Aruba.”
There was a parade of the 131 participants across the stage to receive their certificates from AHATA President Tisa LaSorte and Education Foundation representative and Owner of Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort, Ewald Biemans.
The course was made possible due to sponsorship by AHATA and local support from La Cabana Beach Resort, Eagle Aruba Resort, Divi Golf & Village, and Radisson Blu.
Learn more about the Education Foundation, its scholarships and training programs at www.chtaef.com.
