Pokerwise Takes Off

Pokerwise is a new online program created by a member of the Osage Nation that helps casinos train dealers without having to go to a classroom. Richard Luttrell, Jr. is the brains behind the operation, and he thinks that this will help with the expanding need for training for casino employees. “Pokerwise hopes to alleviate hindrances of classroom based training, such as scheduling, personnel, travel and cost,” Luttrell said. “Providing casinos with manual and DVD, potential dealers take materials to study and practice as opportunities arise- home study, work breaks, or before or after work. Additionally, these materials can also supplement traditional classroom training, enhancing the classroom experience should a casino decide to utilize both approaches.”

Once the tribes had gotten the go ahead to bring in Class III slot machines and tables, people were excited, but it also meant a scramble for qualified employees as there just weren’t enough.  Up until now the market had been limited only to slot machines, which had limited the revenue for the tribes, but it had also limited the kind of employees that were needed to run the casinos. They only needed slot machine attendants at their establishments. With the passing of the new law, the tribes can now bring in tables, and that means that they now need dealers – and there aren’t any. So now they have to start training dealers to run the card games, and it costs quite a bit of money to train that many new employees. Luttrell also pointed out that in most parts of the country, the dealers have to pay for their own training as well. Therefore this new system is not only a break for the casinos, it also benefits the employees themselves.

He thinks this is the perfect way to get those that need it the training that is available, while still helping with the shortage of teachers. He says that considering many dealers make over $100,000 in tips a year, that this opportunity should be available to everyone.

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