PORT OF LOS ANGELES AUTHORIZES $1.2 MILLION TO FUND MARITIME EDUCATION, CAREER OPPORTUNITIES FOR AREA HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
Hundreds of Students in Wilmington, San Pedro, Carson and Gardena to Benefit
SAN PEDRO, Calif. — Aug. 19, 2010 — The Los Angeles Board of Harbor Commissioners has authorized $1.2 million for the Port of Los Angeles to sponsor maritime-related educational programs in Southern California high schools to promote international trade and career opportunities. The agreement with International Trade Education Programs, Inc. (ITEP) will allow hundreds of students in the Harbor Area and elsewhere to continue to receive classroom knowledge and field exposure to port and maritime business operations, as well as job opportunities connected to the nation’s largest trade gateway.
“Even in lean budget times, we understand how critical it is to educate our youth about the maritime industry and enlighten them to potential career paths,” said Port Deputy Executive Director Mike Christensen. “This investment is well worth it for the dividends that these students produce for our communities.”
“The Port of Los Angeles has been our strongest supporter,” added ITEP Chief Executive Officer Amy Grat. “The Port’s vision and funding has allowed our programs to flourish and provide educational and career opportunities that would not happen without the Port’s support.”
Previously, the Port of Los Angeles had given grants to ITEP totaling more than $1.2 million. With the latest authorization of funds to be allocated over three years, the Port will have committed more than $2.4 million to ITEP’s wide range of maritime programming. Additionally, many maritime industry companies provide ITEP additional grants and sponsorships.
ITEP currently has four separate programs at Banning High School in Wilmington that focus on international trade, global environmental sciences, safety and security as well as maritime agriculture, tourism and cuisine. More programming is planned for San Pedro, Gardena, Carson and Oakland. ITEP also operates a program in Barstow.
International Trade Education Programs (ITEP) introduces high school students to careers in international trade, transportation and logistics. ITEP unites business people and educators to prepare students for a meaningful place in the world of tomorrow.
The Port of Los Angeles is America’s premier port and has a strong commitment to developing innovative strategic and sustainable operations that benefit the economy as well as the quality of life for the region and the nation it serves. As the leading seaport in North America in terms of shipping container volume and cargo value, the Port generates 919,000 regional jobs and $39.1 billion in annual wages and tax revenues. A proprietary department of the City of Los Angeles, the Port is self-supporting and does not receive taxpayer dollars.
The Port of Los Angeles – A cleaner port. A brighter future.