TOTE, Education Dept. expand maritime career access
TOTE Maritime Agency Puerto Rico and the Puerto Rico Department of Education have signed an agreement to expand educational and career opportunities in the island’s maritime sector, with a goal of reaching about 4,000 public high school students.
The initiative will offer orientation sessions, guided tours of commercial and training vessels, and access to resources introducing students to maritime professions in Puerto Rico and the mainland United States.
“At TOTE, we strongly believe in the talent of our youth and the transformative power of education,” said Eduardo Pagán, vice president of corporate affairs at TOTE.
“This agreement underscores our commitment to creating tangible pathways for students to explore the unique opportunities the maritime industry offers — from internships and mentorships to vessel visits and scholarship programs,” he said.
The Department of Education will integrate the opportunities into public school curricula, including mentorships, career fairs and partnerships with U.S. maritime academies.
“This partnership with TOTE allows us to integrate real-world career experiences into the curriculum, better preparing our youth for high-demand jobs,” said Education Secretary Eliezer Ramos-Parés.
The maritime sector supports thousands of jobs and generates millions in wages in Puerto Rico. With the agreement, officials said they hope to encourage students to pursue maritime professions while strengthening the island’s future workforce.
