Richard Bland College (RBC) has unveiled the highly anticipated class schedule for its new Dealer Institute, a pivotal initiative designed to train the future workforce for the new “Live! Casino & Hotel” in Petersburg, VA. This comprehensive program aims to equip local residents with the skills necessary to pursue lucrative careers in the rapidly expanding gaming industry.
Program Details and Schedule
The first classes of the inaugural Richard Bland College Dealer Institute are set to begin on Sunday, August 4th, at RBC’s Workforce & Career Readiness Center (3333 South Crater Road, Petersburg, VA 23805). In addition to classes, aspiring dealers can attend informational sessions from 5-7 p.m. on June 11th, 18th, and 25th at Ernst Hall on the RBC campus to learn more about the program and career opportunities.
Classes will be held Monday through Thursday, offering flexible schedules with three four-hour sessions: 8 a.m. to noon, 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., and 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. While there is no tuition fee for the classes themselves, enrollees will be required to pay a $139 fee for the blackjack training kit.
The Launch of the New Petersburg Casino
This workforce development program is a direct response to the demand for skilled professionals as the temporary Live! Casino Virginia prepares to open its doors later this year, creating approximately 500 dealer jobs. Graduates of the RBC Dealer Institute will be encouraged to apply for these positions, though employment is not guaranteed.
The curriculum, developed in a joint statement by RBC and the casino developers, focuses on practical skills for conducting table games, with blackjack being the initial focus. Future plans include introducing training for roulette and baccarat. The program will be taught by licensed, experienced dealers, ensuring high-quality, industry-relevant instruction.
Leaders Emphasize Community Impact
Dr. Debbie Sydow, President of Richard Bland College, emphasized the college’s commitment to providing sustainable career opportunities for the region. When asked about some of the upsaides of the program, Dr. Sydow stated:
“Richard Bland College is working hard to partner with businesses that provide job opportunities in the surrounding communities we serve. Live! Casino Virginia is going to bring sustainable careers to Petersburg and the region. We are excited to open the Dealer Institute and help our students toward careers in the gaming and entertainment industry.”
Penny Parayo, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Petersburg casino, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the institute’s role in establishing long-term careers for its graduates.
The Dealer Institute is a crucial component of the broader economic development surrounding the Live! Casino & Hotel Virginia project. While the temporary casino will open this year, the permanent $1.4 billion resort is slated for completion in 2027, promising even more job creation and economic impact for Petersburg and the surrounding region over the long term.
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