Summary
- Classes run Monday to Friday for six weeks
- Students learn how to run craps, roulette, and other table games.
- After a final audition, passing students earn an NYS gaming license
- Those taking part in the academy may be offered part-time or full-time work at the casino.
The Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady is making a concentrated effort to feature trained and qualified dealers on its gaming floor. The casino recently started a new Dealer Academy, offering table game glasses to students who wish to work in the field. The training program is free and once completed, students can earn employment opportunities at Rivers.
Details of the Classes
The Dealer Academy offers classes Monday to Friday. Students must complete six weeks of training, learning how to host table games like craps and roulette. No experience is required as the training program helps beginners with zero knowledge of table games to become quite experienced at handling the table.
In the end, students must take part in a final audition, showcasing the skills they have learned. After passing this stage, the individual is given a NYS gaming license. Those participating will be given the opportunity to work for Rivers Casino in a part-time or full-time position.
The casino is in desperate need of table game dealers it seems. The operator announced it needs to fill 60 positions within the classes. Class sizes are small so they can coincide with the COVID-19 pandemic restriction needs.
Rivers has created a quality training program so that their casino can be set apart from its competitors. Director of Table Games for the casino, Tom Mcowen, commented that it’s the dealers that allow a casino to stand out. Mcowen reiterated that anyone can go to a casino and find a slot or table game, but you can’t get the same people in each casino.
Hiring individuals that stand out will allow the casino to stand out as well. Players often come back to the same venue if they enjoy the experience they had with the dealer.
What to Expect
Individuals that take part in the program will be provided hourly wages and tips at over $20 an hour. The casino also provides a generous benefits package to its employees. The package includes health care plans, paid time off, a 401(k), etc.
Employees are expected to work holidays and weekends. Positions will vary, with some employees earning part-time work while others will be hired on for full-time.
It is not uncommon for a casino to host its own dealer school. Over the years, many operators have done so for free, providing locals with a chance to receive quality training and obtain employment after passing the available courses.
It will be interesting to see how many people are hired from the Rivers training academy and if the new recruits are able to help the casino see more foot traffic at its table games.
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