Earn while you learn - building a career in the restaurant industry

The National Restaurant Association Education Foundation (NRAEF) apprenticeship programs provide both new and current restaurant and foodservice employees the opportunity to advance their careers and move into high-paying line cook and management positions. Funded by the U.S. Department of Labor, apprenticeship is a win-win for both the employee and their company. 

The Delaware Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (DRAEF) has partnered with the NRAEF and the Delaware Department of Labor and Education to provide Apprenticeship Programs to both youth and adult populations in DE.

Restaurant Youth Registered Apprenticeship (RYRA) aims to connect young people (aged 17-24) to the nation’s second-largest private-sector employer — restaurants — through industry apprenticeships like Restaurant Management and Line Cook, and complementary services that support growth and achievement. RYRA is offered in Colorado, Delaware, Louisiana, and Maryland.

The Hospitality Sector Registered Apprenticeship (HSRA) program provides both new and current restaurant and foodservice employees the opportunity to advance their careers and move into higher-paying management positions.

How it works

In partnership with employers of all sizes, apprentices participate in a competency-based program involving on-the-job training and traditional classroom work. As each skill and competency is mastered, apprentices advance in the program until all competencies are documented and completed. Depending on the ability and experience of the apprentice, the program takes approximately two years to complete.

Hiring opportunities with RYRA Employer Partners

Employers marked with an asterisk (*) have apprentices.

High 5 Hospitality

Big Fish Restaurant Group

Hyatt Place

Ashby Hospitality Group

Platinum Dining Group

Two Stones Pub

We are currently onboarding additional employer partners. To connect with any of our RYRA Employer Partners email Ruthann at: ruthann@delawarerestaurant.org