Copyright M Live Michigan
ANN ARBOR, MI — Taco Bell restaurants in Michigan are the first to offer every staff member a free education. The national fast food chain expanded its Tacos & Tuition program, a partnership with business education company InStride to offer more than 3,000 online programs from universities and other institutions. The programs range from English-language and general educational development courses to bachelor’s and master’s degrees, according to an Oct. 23 press release. More employees are now eligible. Previously, the nation-wide program was only open to team members at company-owned restaurants and corporate employees. “I started my career on the frontline of restaurants, and I’ve seen firsthand how the right support can open doors that once felt out of reach,” Jamie Harrison, global chief people and culture officer at Taco Bell, said in a statement. “No matter how long a Team Member is with us, we want their time at Taco Bell to be meaningful. We’re proud to invest in their future, regardless of where their path takes them.” Team members are not required to pay additional costs to participate, and the program offers flexible schedules around shifts. “Tacos & Tuition has helped cover the cost of my classes, making it easier for me to stay on track to earn my degree in business management,” Anne Kufta, a general manager at a Taco Bell location in Bay City, said in the statement. “The online classes are very flexible, so I am easily able to work around my schedule to do my coursework on my off time.” Taco Bell, headquartered in California, has over 250,000 employees nationally and over 200 locations in Michigan. Select program partners recognize on-the-job training as credit towards degrees, representing more than $10,000 in tuition value for participating employees, reads the statement. Since the education program launched, more than 1,100 stores have enrolled, Taco Bell reports. Keeping employees is the aim. Tacos & Tuition has driven 73% retention on the front line, and the retention rate among managers enrolled in the program is 1 1/2 times higher, according to Taco Bell. “Taco Bell is reshaping what it means to work – and grow – in the quick service restaurant industry. Because while hiring may be seasonal for some, opportunity is always on the menu at Taco Bell," reads the statement. Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page.
