New Orleans – November 14, 2023 - The Port of New Orleans (Port NOLA) and RiverWorks Discovery will host two “Who Works the Rivers” events Wednesday, Nov. 15 and Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, to introduce high school juniors and seniors to the importance of waterborne transportation and the diversity of career paths available on the river.

Hundreds of high school students from Jefferson and Orleans Parish public schools will engage with representatives from various maritime industry organizations at interactive stations located on the riverfront plaza of the Port NOLA Administration Building.

“We are proud to host this incredible hands-on event which is a great opportunity for students to learn about the family-supporting maritime careers available right here in their own backyard,” said Port NOLA President and CEO Brandy D. Christian. “That’s especially important when you consider that Port NOLA is a major economic catalyst for our region and state. Just in Louisiana, ports are responsible for 1 in 5 jobs.”

The interactive displays are designed so students can experience firsthand activities such as line throwing and handling as well as radio communications. Students will also learn more about commodities shipped on the Mississippi River, and get an up-close look at working maritime vessels.

"We are excited to participate in the Who Works the River event because it is an incredible opportunity to expose our students to the varying high-wage, high-growth career opportunities in this industry that directly impacts our state,” said Dr. James Gray, Superintendent of Jefferson Parish Schools. "When our students graduate ready for a career, the entire community benefits from a more skilled workforce.”

“Hands-on, interactive experiences like 'Who Works the River' provide our scholars with the perfect opportunity to discover a variety of career options they may not have been aware of," said Dr. Avis Williams, Superintendent of New Orleans Public Schools. "This kind of exposure can be transformative, potentially altering a scholar's academic path and setting them on the course toward a bright and successful future."

Members of the media can meet at the Port of New Orleans Port Administration Building located at 1350 New Orleans Place, New Orleans, LA 70130. Both events will be held on the Port Plaza from 9 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

For more information about RiverWorks Discovery and “Who Works the Rivers,” visit www.riverworksdiscovery.org.