Immersive career training program provides first-hand look at maritime industry

17 Brevard County high school students have been selected for the Canaveral Port Authority’s Junior Ambassador program for the 2026-27 school year.
(Credit: Canaveral Port Authority) 

Seventeen students from nine Brevard County high schools have been selected to participate in the Canaveral Port Authority’s Junior Ambassadors career training program for the 2026-27 school year. The program is designed to provide the next generation of leaders with first-hand experience in the maritime industry, while supporting workforce development for Port partners and strengthening community connections.

“We’re delighted to welcome this group of highly talented and motivated students to participate in this innovative program,” said Jerry Allender, Chairman of the Canaveral Port Authority Board of Commissioners. “Given Port Canaveral’s wide-ranging impact on our local community, the Junior Ambassadors program holds a special place in our hearts as it allows us to share our knowledge and experience to inspire future leaders to pursue careers in the maritime industry.”

Since its establishment seven years ago, the Port’s Junior Ambassador Program has become increasingly popular among Brevard County’s high school students. Following a comprehensive review and evaluation of all applications received for this school year, the 17 selected student participants represent multiple Brevard County High Schools: Astronaut High School, Cocoa Beach High School, Edgewood High School, Holy Trinity High School, Melbourne Central Catholic High School, Merritt Island High School, Titusville High School and Viera High School.

Throughout the upcoming school year, students will engage with Port leaders across key business sectors, including cruise operations, cargo logistics, military partnerships, recreation, aerospace, commercial fishing, construction and environmental stewardship, to learn more about the diverse operations within Florida’s premier seaport and gain a deeper understanding of the maritime industry. Students are encouraged to share their experiences with their peers, teachers and administrators, amplifying the program’s reach and impact.

Since being established seven years ago, approximately 100 Brevard County high school students have participated in the Junior Ambassadors program with many going on to pursue post-secondary study in maritime, port operations and hospitality professions to secure job opportunities within related fields.