In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering local communities and opening doors to the vibrant world of casino operations, Resorts World New York City (RWNYC) and York College have successfully completed their inaugural “Introduction to Gaming Operations” course. The free, six-week program offered an immersive educational experience designed to provide participants with a foundational understanding of the casino industry, a sector known for its complexity and diverse career opportunities.
The course was meticulously crafted to cover the full spectrum of casino operations, including an in-depth look at key departments such as slot and table games, marketing, the casino cage, security, hotel operations, human resources, and information technology. By providing insights into these varied areas, the course aimed to equip students with the knowledge necessary to pursue careers within the casino industry, which is poised for significant growth in the coming years.
Inside the Course: A Week-by-Week Breakdown
Over the course of six weeks, students were introduced to the multifaceted world of gaming operations. Each week focused on a different aspect of casino management, allowing participants to gain a comprehensive understanding of how the various departments function both independently and in concert with one another.
Industry Overview and Slot Operations
The first week set the stage with an overview of the gaming industry, its history, and its economic impact. This was followed by a deep dive into slot operations, where students learned about the technology, regulations, and strategies behind one of the most lucrative aspects of the casino business.
Table Games and Casino Cage
In the second week, the focus shifted to table games such as blackjack, poker, and roulette. Students were introduced to the intricacies of game management, player interaction, and the importance of maintaining the integrity of games. Additionally, the course covered the operations of the casino cage, which handles the financial transactions within the casino.
Marketing and Customer Engagement
Marketing in the casino industry is a critical component, and week three provided students with insights into how casinos attract and retain customers. From loyalty programs to targeted advertising, the strategies discussed highlighted the importance of understanding the customer base and creating personalized experiences.
Security and Compliance
Security is paramount in any casino operation. The fourth week of the course introduced students to the security measures in place to ensure the safety of patrons and the integrity of the casino. This included an overview of compliance with state and federal regulations, as well as the technology used to monitor the casino floor.
Hotel Operations and Guest Services
The fifth week expanded the focus to include hotel operations, an integral part of the overall casino experience. Students learned about the management of hotel services, from front desk operations to housekeeping, and how these contribute to the guest experience.
Human Resources and Information Technology
The final week of the course covered the essential support functions of human resources and information technology. Students explored the recruitment, training, and retention of staff, as well as the critical role that IT plays in maintaining casino operations, from data security to the management of gaming systems.
A Partnership for Success: Resorts World and York College
The course was the result of a year-long collaboration between Resorts World New York City and York College, a relationship that has proven to be mutually beneficial. RWNYC, a leader in the gaming industry, provided the practical expertise and real-world experience necessary to bring the curriculum to life, while York College, part of the City University of New York (CUNY) system, offered its educational resources and institutional support.
Robert DeSalvio, President of Genting Americas East, the parent company of RWNYC, expressed his pride in the partnership. “Resorts World New York City is proud to continue its partnership with York College, one of the crown jewels of the CUNY system, to help open career pathways for hard-working New Yorkers. Intro to Gaming Operations provides a holistic picture of an industry that requires professionals across the spectrum. This course has prepared participants with the best understanding of how those professionals work together, help each other, and ensure their entire community succeeds.”
Echoing DeSalvio’s sentiments, York College’s Interim President, Claudia V. Schrader, emphasized the significance of the program: “Following a year of planning, the combined brain power of York College and Resorts World Casino resulted in the 2022 launch of a successfully popular adult educational offering, Intro to Gaming, which gives a casino overview from a business lens. The offering is free to all community members and even World Resorts employees. The York College instructors are accompanied at each class by a Resorts World content expert who adds real-world experience and insight. More is yet to come, with planning for the next class already underway, slated to begin in Fall 2024.”
Empowering the Community: Accessibility and Future Opportunities
One of the most notable aspects of the course is its accessibility. The program was offered free of charge, making it an invaluable resource for members of the community who are interested in pursuing careers in the gaming industry but may not have the means to access traditional educational pathways. This inclusivity not only reflects the commitment of both Resorts World and York College to community development but also aligns with broader efforts to create more equitable opportunities in growing industries.
The impact of the course extends beyond the classroom. For participants, the knowledge gained serves as a stepping stone towards employment in a field that is rapidly expanding. With Resorts World’s ambitious plans to transform Southeast Queens into a vibrant entertainment destination, there will likely be a growing demand for skilled professionals across various departments. The course thus positions its graduates at the forefront of new opportunities that are expected to arise as the casino expands its operations.
Resorts World’s Expansion and Future Course Offerings
The success of the “Introduction to Gaming Operations” course is just one part of Resorts World New York City’s broader vision. In March 2023, the casino announced a $5 billion expansion plan that aims to transform Southeast Queens into a premier entertainment hub. This development includes the construction of a concert hall and other amenities that are expected to attract visitors from across the region.
A key component of this expansion is Resorts World’s pursuit of one of three full-fledged gaming licenses to be issued by the state of New York. Currently, RWNYC operates as a “racino,” offering slot machines and electronic table games, but a full casino license would allow it to offer traditional table games such as blackjack and poker. This expansion of offerings would not only enhance the casino’s appeal to a broader audience but also create additional job opportunities in the local community.
As the casino industry in New York City continues to evolve, so too will the educational programs designed to support it. The partnership between Resorts World and York College is already planning the next iteration of the gaming operations course, set to begin in Fall 2024. This new offering will build on the success of the initial course, incorporating feedback from participants and industry developments to ensure that it remains relevant and valuable to future students.
The partnership between Resorts World New York City and York College stands as a model for how industry and education can collaborate to create meaningful opportunities for community members. Through the “Introduction to Gaming Operations” course, participants have gained valuable insights into a complex and dynamic industry, positioning themselves for success in a field with significant growth potential.