Diversity Apprenticeship Program (DAP)

Apply Program Summary Applicant Expectations How the Program Works Contact Us Meet Our Cohorts Participating Partners

PROGRAM SUMMARY

Columbus is a vibrant city, but racially diverse talent and leadership are vastly underrepresented in the travel and hospitality industry. In order to more truly reflect the community we serve, while also taking initiative to combat underrepresentation and lack of equity in the industry as a whole, Experience Columbus and the Greater Columbus Sports Commission launched the Diversity Apprenticeship Program (DAP) in collaboration with Tourism Diversity Matters. DAP — the 2022 recipient of PRNEWS’ Social Impact award — provides a paid, hands-on opportunity for those who identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, Person of Color) in travel industry organizations and businesses.

Upon successfully completing 600 working hours over a period of six months, we’re proud to say that the apprentice(s) will be offered a full-time, manager-level position or higher at a participating partner location. DAP is a significant step toward Experience Columbus’ goal of equity and greater representation, and we couldn’t be prouder to have created this robust program in our city.

Are you interested in learning more about how to become a Partner Host site? If so, complete this form.

APPLICANT EXPECTATIONS

To apply for the Diversity Apprenticeship Program, the applicants should meet the following criteria:

Self-identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, Person of Color)
Be at least eighteen (18) years of age
Provide an official/unofficial copy of their high school/GED or college transcript
Commit to 600 working hours (not to exceed six (6) months)
Adhere to the organizational policies and procedures of Experience Columbus and any additional participating partners
Have an interest in the hospitality/travel/tourism sector

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HOW THE PROGRAM WORKS

Potential candidates will complete a phone and in-person interview.

If selected, the apprentice will be asked to complete a background check.

Apprentice is hired by Experience Columbus, but works most of their hours in one host location for 6 months, or 2 host locations for 3 months each, or 3 host locations for 2 months each, while earning $18/hour.

Upon successful completion of the program the apprentice will be offered a full-time, manager-level position or higher, at one of the participating partner locations.

MEET OUR LATEST COHORT

Check out our past cohorts here!

Jalin Holloway, MS, ECI Host Site: Charter X

Jalin Holloway is a Columbus native that has a true passion for working in the sport industry. Prior to starting the Diversity Apprenticeship Program, he has held a multitude of roles within the industry. He was a Student Manager for the Ohio University Men’s Basketball team while completing his Bachelor of Sport Management and a Minor in Finance. He also was a Sport Law and Development intern for Porter Wright Morris & Arthur LLP in downtown Columbus. He continued his educational journey at The Ohio State University where he received his Master of Science in Kinesiology, Sport Management. While attending Ohio State, he held the role of Marketing Assistant for the Department of Athletics. Jalin has exhibited leadership in other positions that he has held. He served as the President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Phi Chapter at Ohio University, and is also a member of the Black Sports Professionals where he served as a Co-Chair for Student Membership. He was also an Adult Staff member for the Pathways 2 Progress Program where he was able to mentor and guide the youth of Columbus.

Nehemiah Jackson, ECI Host Site: Columbus Blue Jackets

Nehemiah Jackson is a motivated and business-minded professional who earned his undergraduate degree in Sports Management from Pennsylvania Western University - California (formally know as California University of Pennsylvania). After graduating, he furthered his education at The Ohio State University, where he obtained a Master of Kinesiology Sport Management. He has a solid background in sales, marketing, and customer engagement, with practical experience at organizations such as the Columbus Clippers, Columbus Crew, Pittsburgh Riverhounds, Learfield Sports Properties, and as a student assistant with Nike at The Ohio State University. In these roles, he worked in sales and contributed to marketing initiatives, community outreach, and game day operations. Nehemiah excels in event planning, social media strategy, and customer service, consistently working to enhance fan engagement and strengthen brand presence. As a former collegiate athlete and outstanding student, he is recognized for his leadership, critical thinking, and ability to perform well under pressure. With a deep passion for the sports industry, Nehemiah is dedicated to delivering effective business strategies and driving success in every role he undertakes.