More than 90 high school students explored cruise and cargo operations at Port Everglades during National Maritime Month. The marine industry is vital to U.S. commerce, responsible for 2.3 million jobs annually, according to the Marine Economy Satellite Account.
Over two days, Broward County students in the Junior Achievement of South Florida Pre-Apprenticeship program learned about maritime careers through discussions with Disney Cruise Line cast and crew members, staff from Port Everglades Terminal LLC, Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), and the president of the International Longshoremen’s Association Local 1526.
The Junior Achievement of South Florida Pre-Apprenticeship is a six-month program designed to help young people ages 17 to 24 build work-readiness skills and gain knowledge of trade industries.
The career day included tours of Disney Magic while docked and visits to the cargo area where MSC/Port Everglades Terminal operates. Students received insights from Disney Cruise Line shipboard crew members and officers in areas such as human resources, guest services, and entertainment. Crew members shared details about their roles, life at sea, and tips for pursuing a maritime career.
“The opportunities available in the maritime industry are diverse and high-paying,” said Acting Port Director Glenn Wiltshire. “We appreciate the chance to share with the students the various career options available on land and at sea.”
“It’s especially fitting that during National Maritime Month we could share with the participants how we don’t just move cargo but we power the local and global economies,” said Rick Blackmore, CEO of Port Everglades Terminal LLC.
This event marked the first time Disney Cruise Line partnered with Junior Achievement of South Florida’s maritime Pre-Apprenticeship program. Last year, recognizing Disney’s arrival at Port Everglades, the cruise line announced new community investments including donations supporting JA Career Bound as well as other programs like a special marine service technician track educating students about maritime industry basics and engine fundamentals.
“Through our partnership with Junior Achievement of South Florida, and our support of their Pre-Apprenticeship program, we hope to inspire the next generation of maritime professionals,” said Beth Thibodaux, Disney Cruise Line External Affairs Director.