The Port of Houston Partners in Maritime Education Program and the Houston Pilots welcomed more than 85 businesses at a recent forum about maritime initiatives aimed at preparing the next generation of leaders. The Maritime and Logistics Partners Symposium was held Feb. 7 in Deer Park.

Port Houston Senior Director of Small Business and Education Outreach Gilda Ramirez provided opening remarks at the event. “This symposium is a great way for industry to get engaged with the program, which is a non-profit organization benefiting maritime education,” said Ramirez, who serves as president of the Port of Houston Partners board.

Community partners and industry representatives shared their workforce needs, required educational training and career opportunities, while several high schools and colleges gave brief presentations on their degree offerings and programs.

A former Port Houston and Houston Pilots intern, Jacob Block, talked about his experience graduating from the Maritime Program. “These classes and internships have helped me prepare for my next move upon graduation,” said Block, who wants to pursue becoming a vessel captain.

Currently, six maritime programs are in place at Stephen F. Austin, Jack Yates, Dr. Kirk Lewis Pasadena Career and Technical, Galena Park, North Shore and La Porte High Schools.

The Port of Houston Partners in Maritime Education Program also works closely with local college and university maritime programs at Texas A&M University – Galveston, Texas Southern University, University of Houston, Houston Community College, Lee College and San Jacinto College.