JAXPORT jobs now offering second chances

Mar 7, 2017 | Press Releases
< 1 MIN READ


Operation New Hope and JAXPORT today launched the Jacksonville Port Academy, a program designed to connect JAXPORT employers with potential employees, offering non-violent former offenders the opportunity to re-enter the local workforce in the rapidly expanding areas of transportation and logistics.

The academy’s first class of up to 15 students will start later this month with industry-specific curriculum created by the University of North Florida and Florida State College at Jacksonville. More than 10 companies doing business at the port have already pledged participation in the hiring program.

Jacksonville Port Academy was created after Operation New Hope’s founder and CEO Kevin Gay toured JAXPORT’s terminals in 2015. “Seeing the growth of the port, we began exploring avenues to discuss workforce needs and began creating initiatives to provide port employers with skilled workers,” said Gay.

“JAXPORT’s success hinges greatly upon a viable and sustainable workforce,” said Eric Green, JAXPORT Senior Director, Government and External Affairs. “The training and on-going support provided by the Jacksonville Port Academy will create real economic stability for those who deserve a second chance.”

The Jacksonville Port Academy is a collaborative effort between JAXPORT and its tenants, local education partners and Operation New Hope.

Interested employers can contact Lori Frederick, Jacksonville Port Academy Coordinator, at 904-354-4673 or LFrederick@OperationNewHope.com.

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