More than 40 local students got a firsthand look at careers in the maritime, public safety, tourism and hospitality industries during the third annual Marina del Rey Career Day, hosted by the Marina del Rey Tourism Board in partnership with the office of Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell.
The event connected students from local Boys & Girls Clubs with industry professionals through guided tours, hands-on activities and interactive presentations highlighting career paths available throughout Marina del Rey.
Students toured the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department's Marina del Rey Station, City Cruises, FantaSea Yachts, Hilton Garden Inn and The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey, meeting with professionals in tourism, hospitality, maritime operations and public safety. Along the way, they learned about the training and skills required for jobs including sheriff's deputy, executive chef, hotel manager and boat captain.
"We're proud to introduce local students to the rewarding careers that Marina del Rey tourism and hospitality industries have to offer," Janet Zaldua, CEO of the Marina del Rey Tourism Board, said in a statement. "With our partners at the Office of Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell and local Boys & Girls Clubs, Career Day has sparked curiosity and helped local students envision the opportunities available in their backyard."
Mitchell said the event gives students a look at career paths within Los Angeles County departments and the industries that support the marina.
"It's important for students to see the opportunities available within our Los Angeles County departments and the industries that help Marina del Rey thrive," Mitchell said. "This event is about investing in the next generation and supporting the workforce and businesses that make this world-class marina a welcoming destination for residents and visitors alike."
The day concluded with a recognition ceremony at the Hilton Garden Inn, where students received completion certificates presented by Mitchell's office. A raffle rewarded participants for their engagement in the day's activities.
Angel Silva, director of teen programming at the Boys & Girls Club of West San Gabriel Valley & Eastside, said the event exposes students to possibilities they might not have otherwise considered.
"The teens love Marina del Rey Career Day, which offers an invaluable opportunity to learn about career paths directly from professionals in the field," Silva said. "It opens their eyes to possibilities that they didn't even know existed, feeding their curiosity and encouraging them to confidently pursue new paths."
The Marina del Rey Tourism Board said the annual event reflects its commitment to introducing local youth to career opportunities while supporting the workforce behind the marina's tourism and hospitality industry.