For Johnathan Bartolomey, what began as a summer opportunity to earn money became a journey of growing confidence, new opportunities, and a passion for hospitality.
Encouraged by his uncle, Johnathan enrolled in YouthWorks through MassHire New Bedford in the summer of 2024. During six weeks of virtual learning, he developed skills in budgeting, resume writing, and personal well-being.
“That summer opened my eyes to all that MassHire could offer me,” Johnathan recalled.
In 2025, Johnathan returned to YouthWorks and was placed at Sorbae Frozen Treats in New Bedford, working alongside owner Monica Ferracioli. There, he gained hands-on food service experience while learning to work independently.
“While she spent so much time guiding me through each process, she also made sure to step back when needed to allow me to be independent,” he shared.
The experience left Johnathan with lasting memories and a growing interest in hospitality. “To me, the first summer that I spent in Sorbae will always be filled with nostalgia as I remember each customer interaction, the pop making, and always being able to taste test her products.”
Johnathan was rehired at Sorbae that fall, but when the business closed for the winter, he began searching for another job while navigating his senior year of high school and college applications. After several unsuccessful attempts, an opportunity emerged during a school field trip to Southcoast Hospital in New Bedford. There, he met Courtney Shea, a dietitian and food service department manager, who encouraged him to apply for a position.
Drawing on interview skills developed through YouthWorks and his experience serving customers with dietary needs at Sorbae, Johnathan approached the interview with confidence. “I left the interview confident, and later that week I found out that I was hired!” he recalled.
Johnathan is now pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management at the Isenberg School of Management at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, taking the next step toward building a career in an industry he has grown passionate about. “I realized that there are so many more avenues of hospitality to consider than I was previously aware of, and I want to explore everything,” he shared.
Reflecting on how far he has come, Johnathan credits his YouthWorks experiences with helping him develop the confidence to pursue his goals.
"If it weren’t for the summer internships at MassHire, and all the support I have received, I would not have the level of confidence nor have the skill sets and mindset to go after my dream of working in Hospitality Management,” Johnathan said.
About YouthWorks:
YouthWorks provides Massachusetts youth with paid work experience and workforce development opportunities. The program operates year-round, serving participants from 14 to 25 years old, with a special focus on vulnerable populations. Through collaboration with MassHire and local partners, YouthWorks aims to reduce unemployment, increase career awareness, and empower the next generation of Massachusetts workers.
Skills Development: Building the Foundation for Success through YouthWorks
For more information about YouthWorks, visit commcorp.org/youthworks