Disney Cruise Line hosts career panel for South Florida students

While Disney Dream was in port, the line partnered with Junior Achievement of South Florida to host a career panel for students participating in JA Career Bound, a program designed to help build work-readiness skills and gain knowledge of local industries.

Students spoke to several Disney crew members and officers who work in a range of areas, including human resources, guest services and entertainment. Crew shared details about their roles, life at sea and tips for pursuing a maritime career.

Disney Dream crew member a former JA student

One of the panelists, Gabe Biser, human resources manager aboard Disney Dream, is a former Junior Achievement student. He said he appreciated his mentors in the program who encouraged him to learn about different career paths.

'Being part of the cruise industry has been an incredible experience, and I am grateful for the mentors who guided me along my career journey,' Biser said. 'It's an honor to share my experiences with these students, and I hope to inspire them to explore industries they may not be familiar with.'

Following the career panel, students explored Port Everglades, getting a behind-the-scenes look at port and terminal operations. 'We appreciated the opportunity to showcase our port’s diverse operations, including cargo, as part of the wealth of maritime careers available to our youth,' said Glenn Wiltshire, acting director of Port Everglades.

'Many interesting careers in this industry'

Tyler Hilaire, a senior at McArthur High School and a Junior Achievement Career Bound Ambassador said he joined the program to 'learn about how to advance in a professional work environment to pursue my dream jobs,' adding: 'I learned today from Disney Cruise Line that there are so many interesting careers in this industry.'

This initiative is part of Disney Cruise Line’s commitment to creating lasting, positive impact in its port communities. The line recently announced new community investments with Junior Achievement South Florida to mark its arrival to Broward County and the grand opening of its dedicated cruise terminal at Port Everglades.

Disney’s donation supports the Junior Achievement Career Bound and Pre-Apprenticeship programs, including a special marine service technician track that educates students about the maritime industry, marine basics and engine fundamentals.

Empowering young minds

'These initiatives play a pivotal role in shaping the future workforce by offering valuable insights and opportunities, and empowering young minds to navigate their career paths successfully,' said Laurie Sallarulo, president & CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida.

Disney and Broward County have a 15-year agreement that includes a minimum 10.6m passenger movements, with three five-year extension options that could add another 11.25m passenger movements. The agreement provides for one ship to homeport at Everglades year-round, joined by a second, seasonal ship in 2025.

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