The St. Bernard Port and Associated Terminals participate in “We Work the Waterways” event at Chalmette High School

On Wednesday, October 9 the St. Bernard Port, Associated Terminals, and Turn Services held an educational event at Chalmette High School. The event was a collaboration with the We Work the Waterways program from Inland Rivers Ports and Terminals. The interactive program introduced high school juniors and seniors to the importance of waterborne transportation and the diversity of career paths available on the river.

            The day began with a brief presentation led by Dawn Lopez, the Vice President of Marketing & Public Relations at Associated Terminals & Turn Services, followed by Drew M. Heaphy, Executive Director of The St. Bernard Port, Harbor and Terminal District. This presentation educated the students about careers on the river and gave background into how the port came to be. Marty Vizier, We Work the Waterways Program Coordinator, gave a visual understanding of how important commerce traveling by boat is essential to our everyday lives. Shortly after, a panel followed, which consisted of workers on the river, safety coordinators, and media representatives.

            In addition to the presentation and panel, there was also a segment speaking on how to prepare for an interview including tips on appearance, conduct, and what questions to ask following the interview. This segment was led by Darryion Osborne, the HR Coordinator for Turn Services, and Taylor Martin, the Human Resources Recruiter for Associated Terminals.

            The event then moved to Chalmette High School’s courtyard, where the students engaged in various Maritime-related activities and stations. The activities and displays gave students a creative perspective on daily industry tasks, such as line throwing and handling, and radio communications. Also, in attendance giving valuable information and interactive stations were Nunez Community College, and the Harbor Police Department. The day concluded with the students being able to ask questions to any Maritime employee, and a group picture.

For Vizier, this event was about more than just educating the youth: "At We Work the Waterways, we believe in bringing the maritime world to students, and at the CHS event, we brought it right where they are! By hosting events directly in high schools, we're giving young minds a chance to explore exciting career opportunities on the water, without ever having to leave the classroom. This style created an opportunity to speak with the students 1 on 1 and really connect with their interests.”

 “It was exciting to spend the day with students from Chalmette High School and show them the exciting career opportunities in the maritime industry. All in all, we hope they learned how valuable the Maritime industry is to St. Bernard Parish,” said Heaphy.

 It was a bright day with an event to spark bright minds.