On the eve of the start of a crucial tourism year, participants at a Government-convened Hospitality Workforce Summit have raised concern about ongoing recruitment challenges in some areas of the hospitality industry.

According to a Government statement, they agreed to a need for targeted training, workforce stability and structured pathways to strengthen the local talent pipeline.

The summit was called to address employment needs, particularly in hospitality, and involved the Bermuda Industrial Union and the Bermuda Tourism Authority.

Participants heard from representatives from the Fairmont Southampton, the restaurant division of the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce and the Bermuda Hotel Association.

They shared insights on current and projected staffing demands, emerging skills gaps, workforce pipeline challenges, visitor expectations and sector priorities, a government statement said.

Jason Hayward, the Minister of Economy and Labour said collaboration was important in strengthening the hospitality workforce, because it is a vital pillar of Bermuda’s economy.

He said of the sector: “It is central to our tourism product, providing meaningful employment and career pathways for Bermudians across a wide range of roles.

“This summit reflects our shared commitment to working with industry partners to ensure Bermudians are prepared, trained, and positioned to take advantage of opportunities within this important sector.”

The summit provided an opportunity for open, solutions-focused dialogue on both immediate and long-term workforce needs.

Representatives from hotels of varying sizes, restaurants across the island, and the Bermuda College contributed to discussions on coordinated workforce planning and the importance of building a skilled and supported workforce.

Discussions focused on practical strategies to support workforce sustainability, including enhanced training and development initiatives, targeted interventions, and consideration of immigration policies that support industry needs while prioritising opportunities for Bermudians.

While some discussions addressed preparations for the 2026 tourism season, it was recognised that several workforce challenges require medium- and long-term solutions, the government statement said.

It added the Department of Workforce Development will utilise the summit's outcomes to guide ongoing engagement with employers and stakeholders, and to inform future workforce planning initiatives aligned with Bermuda’s broader economic and labour priorities.