Ohio apprenticeship program works to close racial equity gap

COLUMBUS, Ohio — In 2021, Experience Columbus and Tourism Diversity Matters set out to tackle an issue within the travel and tourism industry: underrepresentation.

Specifically, it set out to improve the underrepresentation of Black, indigenous, and people of color in the industry, especially in positions of leadership. The six-month program gives students, recent graduates and professionals the chance to serve as apprentices at local businesses in the area, while building their skills in areas of interest. 

Efua Amissah Aggrey said the program was perfect. Before joining the program, she was on a nursing track but realized it wasn’t for her. 

She said while she could not imagine working at John Glenn International Airport in Columbus it has become one of the best things she could have done. Aggrey works as the Customer Experience Program Coordinator and helps people navigate the airport, those who may be stranded in the airport, and those with disabilities. 

“It’s learning more about those who are differently abled… I don’t think I knew much about that before I came to this job,” Aggrey said. “I like learning about their experiences. It’s been an eye-opening journey.”

She goes out of her way to help others who need a little help even when she is not working because of a new outlook on serving others. 

Aggrey was part of the inaugural cohort and finished in March. She is one of five apprentices ending up with full-time employment. 

Now, Karis Hall is following as a member of the second cohort working a six-month stint. 

Hall, an Ohio State graduate, did not know the plan for post-graduation.

“Post-pandemic, I was extremely afraid to enter the workforce,” Hall said. She said her mentors helped direct her, and she applied for the apprenticeship program which placed her at Hilton Columbus at Easton. 

Hall used to pass by the hotel every day during her commute to work and only wished to work there. 

“I knew that I always wanted to work here, at least while in Columbus, and I was just in awe when the opportunity came about,” Hall said.

She said the work has given her a lot of hands-on experience throughout the different job areas while pursuing her passion. 

Hall said the current general manager is an African American woman and the two connected.

She said it was an honor to have honest dialogue with the manager and share what she sees first-hand, ask questions and learn more about the work.

Hall’s cohort of apprentices finishes in June. Hilton Columbus at Easton already offered her a position in the front office.