Senator Kim Wilson is encouraging all Bermudians to reconsider a career in the hospitality industry and take part in a job fair today.Department of Labour and Training, along with Bermuda Hotel Association, have organised an event to help local workers find employment in the sector.The Hospitality Job Fair will include ten industry groups and takes place at the Fairmont Hamilton from 10am to 2pm.Speaking to the Senate yesterday, Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Kim Wilson said that hundreds of jobs would be available in the industry.She encouraged Bermudians of all ages and skills levels to fill such positions.“Over the years the industry has experienced a brain drain,” Sen Wilson said.“Talented Bermudians exited the industry in favour of the new opportunities that a more diverse economy provided; parents challenged their children to seek out what they viewed as more glamorous careers.“The net result is an industry with a disproportionate non-Bermudians workforce and a Bermuda experience that is less than authentic thereby negatively affecting our visitors’ cultural experience.”She said the tough economic environment has presented Bermudians with “a golden opportunity” to reclaim their place in the industry.It has also presented an opportunity to build upon the legacy of friendly, high quality service that one’s parents and grandparents were known for.Lastly it gives those unemployed an opportunity to embark on a rewarding career, the Senator said.She urged those seeking entry level positions to take part in a week-long programme designed to get interested applicants “job ready”.The programmes, put on by the Department of Labour and Training and the Bermuda Hospitality Institute, will give people a better understanding of the industry and teach them about communication and interpersonal skills needed on the job, Sen Wilson said.It will also include a skills gap assessment, which shows people how to bridge missing skills through alternative resources, and teach interview techniques to prepare people for an entry-level position in the industry.Sen Wilson said: “I am not taking my commitment to ensure that Bermudians are provided with opportunities to work lightly.“[Today] all unemployed Bermudians should present themselves at the Hospitality Job Fair at the Fairmont Hamilton to make an application for available jobs.”She said interested individuals will have the opportunity to register for the job-ready programme today. A second fair will be held next month, exclusively for programme participants.Useful website: www.gov.bm