VICKSBURG, Miss. – High school students from the Vicksburg Warren School District (VWSD) had the unique opportunity to explore careers in the maritime, shipping, and logistics industries during the We Work the Waterways Industry Interaction Day on February 7, 2025. The event, held at the Hinds Community College Maritime Training Center at the Vicksburg Warren Campus, provided an immersive educational experience highlighting the significance of the nation’s waterways and the diverse career paths within the industry.
Hundreds of students from VWSD and surrounding areas engaged with maritime professionals through visually engaging presentations and hands-on activities. The event included interactive stations at the Maritime Training Center, the Lower Mississippi River Museum, and Ergon Marine, where students learned essential industry skills such as line throwing, knot tying, and man-overboard drills.
“We Work the Waterways is dedicated to increasing access to maritime industry job opportunities while broadening public awareness of the economic and historical significance of our waterways,” said Errin Howard, Director of We Work the Waterways. “This event equips students with valuable resources for their future professional development and fosters lasting connections between industry leaders and the next generation of workers.”
The event was made possible through a collaboration between VWSD, We Work the Waterways, and maritime industry partners, including Associated Terminals, Turn Services, Golding Barge Line, Magnolia Marine, Ergon Marine, Big River Salvage Company, and several others. Representatives from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Coast Guard, and the Warren County Port Commission were also in attendance to provide insights into their roles within the industry.
VWSD remains committed to providing students with real-world learning opportunities that prepare them for college and career success. Through partnerships like these, the district continues to expand workforce readiness programs that align with local and national industry needs.