Friday, February 9, 2024
Today, a group of local students ventured beyond their classrooms to explore Broward County’s Port Everglades, engaging with crew members from Disney Cruise Line to delve into maritime industry careers.
As the Disney Dream anchored at the port, Disney Cruise Line collaborated with Junior Achievement of South Florida, organizing an engaging career panel. This event was part of the JA Career Bound program, aimed at equipping students with the skills necessary for workforce readiness and offering insights into regional industries. The students had the opportunity to interact with various Disney Cruise Line crew members and officers stationed on the ship, covering departments like human resources, guest services, and entertainment. These crew members provided insights into their daily responsibilities, shared experiences of life at sea, and offered advice for those interested in pursuing careers in the maritime sector.
One of the panelists, Gabe Biser, human resources manager aboard the Disney Dream, is also a former Junior Achievement student. He said he appreciated his mentors in the program who encouraged him to learn about different career paths. “Being part of the cruise industry has been an incredible experience, and I am grateful for the mentors who guided me along my career journey,” said Biser. “It’s an honor to share my experiences with these students, and I hope to inspire them to explore industries they may not be familiar with.”
Following the career panel, students explored Port Everglades, touring unique spaces, and getting a behind-the-scenes look at port and terminal operations. “We appreciated the opportunity to showcase our port’s diverse operations, including cargo, as part of the wealth of maritime careers available to our youth,” said Glenn Wiltshire, Acting Director of Port Everglades
“I joined the Junior Achievement Career Bound program because I want to learn about how to advance in a professional work environment to pursue my dream jobs,” said Tyler Hilaire, a senior student at McArthur High School and a Junior Achievement Career Bound Ambassador. “I learned today from Disney Cruise Line that there are so many interesting careers in this industry.”
This effort underscores Disney Cruise Line’s dedication to fostering meaningful, beneficial effects within the communities of its ports by supporting youth educational programs. These initiatives aim to enhance awareness, accessibility, and practical learning experiences. In a recent move to commemorate its entrance into Broward County and the inauguration of its exclusive cruise terminal last November, Disney Cruise Line has unveiled new contributions to Junior Achievement South Florida. The funding from Disney aids the Junior Achievement Career Bound and Pre-Apprenticeship programs, notably introducing a marine service technician pathway. This specialized track offers students insights into the maritime sector, covering marine principles and engine basics.
“We’re grateful for Disney Cruise Line’s ongoing support,” said Laurie Sallarulo, president & CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA). “These initiatives play a pivotal role in shaping the future workforce by offering valuable insights and opportunities, and empowering young minds to navigate their career paths successfully.”
DCL and Broward County have disclosed a 15-year partnership, guaranteeing at least 10.6 million passenger movements, with the potential for three additional 5-year extensions that could increase passenger movements by another 11.25 million. Under this agreement, one ship will be stationed year-round at Port Everglades, with a second ship to be added on a seasonal basis starting in 2025.
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
