JA Maritime Launched: Inspiring Rhode Island's Next-Gen Workforce

A major stride for workforce development kicked off December 10-12, 2024, as Junior Achievement of Rhode Island hosted its JA Inspire Career Exploration Fair. Over 5,800 8th graders from across the state gained firsthand exposure to high-growth, high-demand careers from 95 exhibitors at the Rhode Island Convention Center.

The event notably marked the launch of JA Maritime, a groundbreaking national partnership between Junior Achievement USA and the U.S. Government. This innovative initiative aims to spotlight critical career pathways within the vital Submarine Industrial Base (SIB) industry. A VIP Reception underscored the program's significance, featuring addresses from Rear Admiral Michael van Poots, Commander, Undersea Warfighting Development Center, and William Barber, Youth Education & Outreach Lead, General Dynamics Electric Boat. 

On the exhibit floor, a dedicated Submarine Industrial Base section offered immersive, hands-on experiences. Students explored an inflatable submarine, engaged with a mobile manufacturing lab, used welding simulators, and learned about the U.S. Navy. Key exhibitors included General Dynamics Electric Boat, Blue Forge Alliance, U.S. Navy – Submarine Force Museum, U.S. Navy – PCU Arizona, and the UCONN-URI Navy STEM Crew. 

The successful debut of JA Maritime at JA Inspire powerfully demonstrated Junior Achievement's commitment to equipping Rhode Island's youth with compelling career opportunities, laying a strong foundation for the region's maritime future.