(Grand Rapids, Mich.) – Gun Lake Casino is partnering with Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) this fall to offer a Blackjack Dealer Academy that will provide guaranteed jobs.

Gun Lake Casino reached out to GRCC to assist in bringing their current training program to downtown Grand Rapids, allowing it to be convenient for participants. GRCC’s Workforce Training Division is the first public community college in the state of Michigan to partner with a tribal casino to offer this type of academy.

“It is a natural fit for us to partner with Grand Rapids Community College. We have many GRCC alumni that are key contributors at Gun Lake Casino within our hospitality and security departments.” Jose Flores, vice president and general manager at Gun Lake Casino.

The college will host the first set of training classes, which will be taught by Gun Lake Casino’s table games trainer, Natalie Garcia, in October at the Leslie E. Tassell M-TEC building, 622 Godfrey Ave. SW.

“We work closely with employers across the region to train people for in-demand jobs, filling local needs,” said Julie Parks, executive director of Workforce Training. “This is our first opportunity to train people for careers in the gaming industry, and we are looking forward to growing this new partnership.”

Prospective students must be 21 years old and have a high school diploma or an equivalent. The class costs $25 with the additional cost being offset by the casino. Students who successfully complete the training will receive Blackjack Dealer Academy certification and will receive a guaranteed job after passing an audition and securing a gaming license. Currently, Gun Lake Casino has more than 25 positions available and is providing an attractive deal to new team members. The job openings are mainly for second- and third-shift hours. Wages vary, but the average is $18 to $22 per hour, this amount includes a base pay and tips. Team members receive free healthcare, free shift meals and free uniforms.