BEST Hospitality Training - Serving the Greater Boston Area

This class has given me something powerful: hope. I was born in Haiti, and right now, what’s happening there is heartbreaking. It’s hard to focus when you’re thinking about family and friends back home. But coming to BEST every day gave me something steady, something positive to build on. It reminded me that I’m not powerless. That I can still move forward. BEST didn’t just train me for a job—it gave me purpose.

Agnela A.

What I am most proud of when I think about BEST is that they think of our members as whole human beings, not just laborers for hotels. By offering classes like Tech, U.S. Citizenship Prep, English, and CPR, BEST helps our members and their families better themselves as citizens of our communities.

Carlos Aramayo, UNITE HERE Local 26

Thanks to BEST, I got training, support, and real-life experience in hotel kitchens. This past Spring, I started my dream job at the Hilton Boston Park Plaza. I’m excited about the good wages, the Local 26 union benefits, and being part of a team. I want to have a family. I want to buy a house someday. I don’t plan to ever leave this job. So, if you’re looking for me in ten years, stop by the Park Plaza.

Michael W.

In my job, I earn beautiful pay and beautiful benefits and I am completely blessed, completely!

Jerome M.

My job is my backbone. Everything I own as an immigrant after coming to the U.S. with nothing is because of my job. When I started in 1996, I didn't know if I was going to stay. But things being good, the coworkers, the managers, Local 26, the benefits... and now I've been a hotel worker for 28 years.

Mathieu D.

Being a part of BEST has allowed me to raise my family. I thank BEST for that.

Tanisha M.

I’ve witnessed the transformative power of the Culinary Training Program. Beyond honing culinary skills, it opens doors for aspiring line cooks, providing them with essential knowledge and practical experience. It’s not just about cooking; it’s about creating opportunities and shaping vibrant careers in the hotel industry.

Chef Chris Kanaple, Westin Boston Seaport

In 2004, my life changed when I got a job as a housekeeper at the Ritz Carlton. Today, 19 years later, I am still a very grateful, proud, and loyal Local 26 housekeeper. I am a mother of five, wife, and active member of my community because I have stability in my life.

Abeba B.

Through a combination of engaging monthly meetings, hands-on practical classes, and immersive on-property job shadowing, I played a role in shaping the next generation of culinary talent through BEST's new Culinary Training Program. By investing in future chefs, we ensure the market continues to deliver exceptional guest experiences, fosters industry growth, and provides skilled professionals with rewarding careers.

Chef Rob Donahue, Aloft & Element Hotels

I work 40 hours, get paid good wages, and get great benefits. They're awesome! We get the opportunity to learn new skills and this gives us the confidence to build a career.

Ilsy P.

Providing access to non-traditional forms of training and education to those who would otherwise not have access will strengthen the hotel industry for years to come. I am excited to see the Culinary Training Program graduates transition into fine hospitality professionals in the future.

Chef Zaid Khan, Fairmont Copley Plaza

I am a single mom and working in a union hotel is a good opportunity to give a better life for my son.

Silvia D.

We are proud to partner with BEST to provide residents with the education, skills, and training necessary to attain and excel in family-sustaining jobs. We are grateful for their dedication to creating meaningful career pathways for residents and providing a trained, diverse talent pool to meet the labor demands of the city's hospitality employers.

Chief Trinh Nguyen, City of Boston

I like my job. I like my position. The people took the time to train me and that is why I am working as a professional hotel worker.

Jackson T.

It’s a brilliant opportunity to take classes directly at my hotel. I was able to get certified during paid hours and return to work right after the training.

Tri D.

All teams in my department are friendly. My manager is very friendly with me. That is why I feel happy to come to work every day!

Candido G.

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