How to train and retrain in hospitality and restaurant industry in Canada

By The Editorial Team | Published on July 17, 2025

The hospitality and restaurant sector is one of the most dynamic in Canada, offering many job opportunities and career retraining in restaurants. Whether you are seeking a first job, a new career, or skill development, there are multiple hospitality and restaurant training programs in Canada suited to all profiles.

1.2M
jobs in Canada
100k
positions to fill in 2023
60%
of managers started as employees

A growing sector

In Canada, hospitality and restaurants represent over 1.2 million jobs, about 6% of the total workforce (source: Statistics Canada, 2023). After the pandemic, the sector experienced a strong recovery: in 2023, more than 100,000 positions were available, notably in major cities like Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver, as well as in tourist regions.

Why train or retrain in hospitality and restaurants?

🚀

An accessible sector

Many positions do not require specific diplomas, facilitating access for career changers or newcomers.

📈

Growth opportunities

According to Restaurants Canada, 60% of restaurant managers started as entry-level employees.

🎯

Varied professions

Kitchen, service, management, sommellerie, reception, events… The restaurant professions are numerous and adapt to all profiles.

Different training paths

🎓

Professional and technical training

In Canada, colleges and institutes offer programs in hospitality, restaurant management, culinary arts, pastry, sommellerie, etc. These programs typically last from 6 months to 2 years.

15,000 students enrolled in Quebec in 2022
🤝

Apprenticeship training

Many establishments offer paid internships or apprenticeship contracts, allowing you to gain practical experience while training.

40% of young professionals trained via apprenticeships
🔄

Continuing education for adults

For adults retraining, there are continuing education programs in hospitality, often funded by provincial or federal governments.

Flexible training: evenings, weekends, online
💻

Online certifications

Increasingly, platforms offer online courses on team management, customer service, food safety, or mixology. These restaurant certifications are assets to stand out.

Often free and recognized

Key steps to succeed in retraining

1

Assess your skills

Identify your strengths (interpersonal, organization, creativity…) and the professions that interest you.

2

Research training programs

Consult websites of colleges, professional training centers, and government agencies.

3

Meet professionals

Attend job fairs, open houses, or webinars to connect with experts.

4

Value your experience

Even without direct experience, transferable skills (stress management, teamwork, languages) are sought after.

5

Apply for internships

Many employers are willing to train motivated candidates on-site for a hotel job in Canada.

💰

Financial aids and programs for training in Canada

Grants and scholarships

Several provinces offer financial aid for professional training (e.g., Quebec Loans and Bursaries, Ontario Employment Grants).

Immigration programs

Some programs facilitate access to hospitality jobs for newcomers (Skilled Worker Program, International Experience Canada, etc.).

Support services

Organizations like CQRHT (Quebec Tourism HR Council) or Emploi-Québec assist candidates in their retraining projects.

💬

Testimonial

"After ten years in retail, I took a hotel management course in Montreal. I secured a supervisor position in a large hotel within six months. The training helped me highlight my management skills and learn sector specifics."
— Marc, 38 years old, Montreal

Conclusion

Training or retraining in hospitality and restaurants in Canada is an accessible and rewarding process, regardless of age or background. Thanks to diverse training options, job prospects, and support programs, it is possible to build a solid career in a growing sector.