The funds will support the continued expansion and enhancement of OIC Philadelphia’s Hospitality & Tourism Training Institute -- a job training program PCCA helped to establish in 1989.
PHILADELPHIA (December 02, 2024) – OIC Philadelphia – a nonprofit that stands at the intersection of workforce development, social justice, and economic empowerment by connecting individuals to future-proof employment that provides a family-sustaining wage with career ladder opportunities for growth – has received a $1.1 million contribution from the Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority (PCCA). This donation marks the 35th consecutive year of funding – and the largest contribution -- from PCCA in support of OIC Philadelphia’s flagship program, the Hospitality & Tourism Training Institute.
In 1989 PCCA helped OIC Philadelphia develop the program – dubbed the Hospitality Training Institute at the time – to address the growing need for skilled professionals in Philadelphia’s hospitality sector. Since then, the program has evolved to meet the rising demands of the industry, providing training for more than 7,500 students. This year, through the support of PCCA, OIC Philadelphia was able to expand to Hospitality & Tourism in preparation for 2026 – an anticipated banner year for the industry in the City of Philadelphia. Through the support of PCCA, OIC Philadelphia was also able to introduce new programming in digital media and audio engineering, reflecting the evolving needs of the industry and providing participants with a broader range of career opportunities.
Thanks to the 2024-2025 investment from the Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority, OIC was also able to undergo a comprehensive branding overhaul. This included developing a new strategic plan, a new logo, a new tagline, a new website, new collateral materials, and a comprehensive advertising campaign. These efforts increased the number of applicants from 850 last year to 4,650 this year.
Under the leadership of John McNichol, CEO of the Pennsylvania Convention Center, PCCA has played a pivotal role in the institute's growth, which continues to create pathways to career success for those who complete the programs. Notable alumni such as Chopped Champion Kristol Bryant, Ernesto Venturo of La Ingrata, and Darlene Jones of Star Fusion Restaurant exemplify the program’s success and its profound impact on the local community. To showcase this success – while celebrating 35 years of partnership – OIC Philadelphia hosted “A Taste of OIC” -- a culinary showcase that highlighted the remarkable success stories of its graduates thanks to the support of PCCA.
To further honor their commitment, OIC Philadelphia proudly recognized John McNichol and PCCA with the 2024 Workforce Partner Award in Gratitude at the 60th Anniversary Gala. This video debuted at the Gala, powerfully showcasing OIC Philadelphia’s history, impact, and vision for the future.
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About OIC Philadelphia
OIC Philadelphia, a leader in workforce development since 1964, stands at the intersection of workforce development, social justice, and economic empowerment by connecting individuals to future-proof employment that provides a family-sustaining wage with career ladder opportunities for growth. Founded by Reverend Dr. Leon H. Sullivan, OIC Philadelphia envisions economic empowerment as a pathway to social justice. For more, visit www.OICPhila.org.
