At the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC), we know that building a thriving future for the hospitality and tourism industry starts with investing in emerging talent today. That’s why we don’t just offer internships; we build pathways for students into the hospitality industry.

Every academic term, we welcome an average of four interns to our team and provide them with a hands-on learning environment that goes far beyond textbooks. Students are not on the sidelines, they are part of the team from day one, contributing directly to the planning and execution of major events in a fast-paced, professional environment.

What truly sets our internship program apart is what comes next.

“Our internship program isn’t just about filling temporary roles, it’s about investing in people and the future of the industry,” adds Marna Santo, Chief People Officer. “Many of our talented team members began their careers as interns at the MTCC. By offering mentorship, meaningful work, and a welcoming environment, we’re not only helping students grow, we’re building the next generation of hospitality leaders.”

A Culture of Support and Collaboration

At the MTCC, our interns experience more than just a placement, they experience our culture. We’re proud of our collaborative, people-focused environment, where every team member is committed to helping new talent succeed.

“It seems like a small thing, but every workplace I’ve ever been at (and I’ve worked at a lot of places) had people who spell or pronounce my name wrong,” says Christie Lai, now our Catering Coordinator. “During my first week, everyone I met that wasn’t sure of my name asked and actually remembered! It made me feel like I was truly being welcomed to the team.”

On their first day, our interns take part in a comprehensive onboarding process designed to set them up for success. We believe that the best way to understand how a world-class convention centre operates is to see it from every angle, and so our interns participate in cross-training across multiple departments. This immersive approach gives them a complete inside look at how all the pieces fit together, from event planning and operations to food and beverage and beyond.

Our internship program is also a valuable development opportunity for our existing team members. By mentoring interns, employees across departments step into coaching and training roles that strengthen their own leadership skills. This hands-on involvement supports succession planning and builds a stronger, more connected team culture.

“Mentoring interns positively impacts our team culture by fostering collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and leadership development,” says Sabrina Cristiano, Assistant Director of Events. “It gives team members the opportunity to build confidence and coaching skills while reinforcing a culture of support and continuous learning.”

Strengthening Industry Connections

Our commitment to student success doesn’t begin with internships, it begins long before.

“I was the first intern recruited from Humber College 11 years ago,” says Sarah Tabassum, now People & Culture Manager and lead of the MTCC Internship Program. “I find it incredibly valuable how we establish strong partnerships with colleges and university programs to create a pathway for students to connect with industry professionals and get a sneak peek into their career journey. This partnership doesn’t start during internships, our team is engaging students in the classroom through informational interviews, campus recruitment blitzes, capstone projects, and industry roundtable discussions.”

Pathways to Purposeful Careers

Many of our interns have gone on to build incredible careers right here with us. Whether they’ve moved into leadership roles, creative positions, or specialized departments, their journeys all began with a single opportunity to learn, contribute, and grow.

Here are just a few inspiring stories from team members who started as interns and are now making a lasting impact at the MTCC.

“I started at the MTCC 17 years ago as an HR intern,” says Kristina Hall, now Director of Sales. “So much from what I learned during my internship still connects to my role today, from the importance of building relationships to always staying curious and open to learning. That foundation continues to shape how I support our team and deliver value to our clients.”

“During my internship, I had the privilege of shadowing our amazing catering managers, learning valuable insights from their day-to-day work,” says Esther, who transitioned from Catering Intern to Assistant Manager. “I was also trusted to take the lead on some internal events. Although smaller in scale, they were equally important. These experiences helped me become familiar with the MTCC’s guidelines, processes, and the building itself, which made the transition to a full-time role much smoother.”

“Starting as the MTCC’s first Culinary Intern eight years ago gave me the chance to explore both the kitchen and catering sides of our operation,” says Biliana Milanova, now Catering Manager. “Each project and role, from supporting internal events to assisting the VP of Food & Beverage, helped me build the experience and confidence to grow into my current position.”

“I started as a Graphic Design intern 20 years ago, and from the beginning, I was encouraged to bring my ideas forward and collaborate closely with the team,” shares Alena Smirnova, now our In-House Graphic Designer. “That level of trust and creative freedom helped me grow professionally and ultimately led to a full-time role where I continue contributing to the MTCC brand today.”

Once an Intern, Always Part of the Team

Even after an internship concludes and new opportunities are pursued, we never forget our interns and we often find ways to bring them back to the MTCC family.

“When my internship ended, there weren’t any positions available, so I left—briefly. Just as I was about to accept another role, I got a call from my former MTCC manager: ‘Do you have a job? Because I have one for you!’ I returned on a casual basis, and within months, I became a full-time team member. Nine years later, I’m still here. That one phone call changed everything.” — Monica W., Cleaning Services Administrator (Former Exhibitor Services Intern)

This deliberate, future-focused approach allows us to foster passionate, driven individuals and empower them to build lasting careers in the hospitality industry. It’s also helped us create a team that reflects the energy, diversity, and innovation of Toronto itself.

We’re proud to be a catalyst for so many inspiring hospitality careers—and we’re just getting started.

Your internship in hospitality starts here! Are you ready?

Visit our Internship Program page to learn more about upcoming opportunities and how to apply.

Want to see what it’s like behind the scenes?

Check out Life at MTCC on Instagram for a “Day in the Life” look at our interns in action.