One year ago, Flik Hospitality, part of the Compass Group, approached Essex County Schools of Technology (ECST) to initiate a work-based learning program at Newark Liberty International Airport for students studying in the Business and Culinary Arts programs. Flik’s dedication and belief in the ECST students was apparent, and the high schoolers were quickly placed in highly visible, fast-paced positions at the airport.
In recognition of a partnership that is equipping students with knowledge, tools and experiences to help them succeed in their career choices, ECST has named Flik as the 2024 Business Partner of the Year.
Twenty-six students from ECST have joined the work-based learning program, participating in biweekly meetings to learn budgeting, human resources operations and restaurant management. The business and culinary students also receive support from Flik team members with job applications and interview practices.
Furthermore, these ECST students working at the airport have interacted with 60,000 passengers weekly. The students have gained hands-on culinary and food service experience working as prep-chefs in a large commercial kitchen and as customer service representatives in the United Airlines lounges, including the first-class Polaris lounge. In addition, the students have learned the financials of running a large, successful operation and received valuable career feedback.
“The children are our future and if we want a bright and vibrant future, we have to pour into them and set them up for success, one opportunity at a time,” said Toshiba Nelson, supervisor of Catering Operations for Flik. “I see value in facilitating this partnership and the importance of supporting Essex County business and culinary students. As a former high school student at Passaic County Technical Institute in the Academy of Finance program, I can speak from experience about how my internship changed my life and helped prepare me for real work. Being able to pattern with my local high schools and give students the same opportunities that were offered to me warms my heart, and I hope the experience leaves a memorable milestone in their lives.”
Employees at Flik have also accepted invitations to serve on the Business and Culinary Advisory boards at ECST to further impact students’ career development.
“It is rare to find partners like Flik who are willing to be patient, dedicated and show a genuine desire to give young people an opportunity that they could only dream of,” said Bernard Gomes, work-based learning coordinator at ECST. “We are grateful that Flik approached this endeavor to give back to their community and did everything necessary to lay the foundation for a lasting relationship with us and our students.”
