Happy Valley Casino Launches Paid Dealer Training Ahead of 2026 Opening

The soon-to-open Happy Valley Casino in State College has plans to start a free dealer training program for people who want to begin a career in the gaming industry. The 12-week course set to kick off this December will take place at the Nittany Mall, where workers are building the $120 million casino.

Free Program to Become a Casino Dealer Begins This December

The Happy Valley Dealer School will offer day and evening classes that fit different schedules, making it easy for students, people looking to switch careers, or those wanting part-time work to attend. Students will earn money while they learn and get hands-on training in games like blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and craps. The school will also use real-world practice sessions to help students gain confidence and develop the skills they need to work in a fast-paced casino setting.

Eric Pearson, who manages the casino, stressed that the school offers more than just card dealing lessons. He pointed out that the program aims to create paths to long-term jobs in what he called an energetic and expanding field. People who want to apply must be 21 or older and meet Pennsylvania’s rules to get a dealer’s license. You can sign up starting October 1, and classes begin on December 15 and January 5.

Steve Rinaldi, who leads table games at the casino, feels a strong connection to this opportunity. He started out dealing cards at 21, and his fun job working with people grew into a rewarding career. Rinaldi thinks anyone can do well in this field if they bring the right mindset and enthusiasm. He notes that the training program aims to teach all the needed technical abilities.

Old Macy’s at Nittany Mall Becomes $120M Happy Valley Casino

The casino, set to open in spring 2026, will take over the old Macy’s spot at the Nittany Mall. When it starts running, it will create jobs for about 300 people and offer around 750 slot machines, 30 table games, a restaurant, a bar, and a quick bite option. While you will not find a sportsbook on-site, Pennsylvanians can still bet online.

Happy Valley Casino comes from a team-up between SC Gaming OpCo, with Pennsylvania businessman Ira Lubert at the helm, and Saratoga Casino Holdings, which bought most of the project earlier this year. As building work moves along, the dealer school stands out as the first big step to get ready for the casino’s grand opening. People interested in enrolling can get more details or sign up for the program by checking out hvcasino.com.