The Ontario Quarter Horse Racing Industry Development Program has successfully launched a new industry support program called "Pathway to Employment and Education". This is one of a number of industry support programs being introduced in 2009 that will benefit participants in the industry.

The "Pathway to Employment and Education" is a multi-faceted approach to bringing skilled workers into the Quarter Horse racing and breeding industry. The Pathway program showcases the full potential of the industry to new and emerging employees, and encourages employers to take on the role of mentoring these individuals and promoting skills development. Thus ensuring a strong future for the Quarter Horse racing industry as we move forward.

The Pathway program partners with the Equine Guelph GROOM ONE certification program, which provides the platform for accreditation of the knowledge and skills required of a qualified racehorse caretaker.

The program launched on May 8th and 9th with 18 students attending the first 2 day orientation session presented by Equine Guelph. Through this session the program aims to partner Pathway students with Pathway mentors. To support and encourage ongoing skills training, Pathway students hired by Quarter Horse breeders or trainers are eligible for bursary bonuses and tuition reimbursement as they complete the Groom One certification program.

As racing opportunities grow from 35 days in 2009 to 50 days by 2012, one of the biggest challenges facing the industry will be the limited availability of skilled workers.

Wendy Hoogevenn is the director of Industry Development and Support at the Ontario Racing Commission. She says "We are pleased to be able to support a process if accreditation for grooms in the industry...and we hope that this program becomes a resource for employers and supports the development of employees who will grow and stay in the industry."

To learn more about this program - visit
http://www.equineguelph.ca/education/skills.php
or email Gayle Ecker at gecker@uoguelph.ca