MIASF creates DVD to raise career awareness

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – The Marine Industries Association of South Florida and WorkForce One will officially release a new educational DVD tomorrow designed to educate potential employees about the career opportunities available in the industry, MIASF said Monday.

Record-breaking low unemployment rates and a strong marine industry are driving the need for new ways to attract potential employees to marine-related careers.

The marine industry’s economic impact is near $11 billion in Broward County alone, and MIASF said this educational tool is highly anticipated by various educational agencies and local marine employers.

“There is such a broad range of marine industry careers and a need for workers in virtually all segments of the industry,” said Frank Herhold, executive director of MIASF. “This DVD will assist us with educating people about opportunities in the industry and show them how they can be a part of the marine community and boating lifestyle.”

WorkForce One – the administrative agency of the Broward Workforce Development Board – obtained a grant from the state of Florida that was used to fund the project.

“Our partnership with MIASF on this project is another way to boost the local economy by potentially bringing more people into an industry that carries such a large economic impact in Broward County,” said Mason C. Jackson, president and CEO of WorkForce One.

Interviews with nearly 50 marine industry professionals – including shipyard project managers, carpenters, painters, yacht crew, yacht designers and marina operators – were conducted for the DVD. It provides information about educational needs and opportunities, as well as how to get started in a marine industry career.

DVD distribution will begin in Broward County schools, from middle and high schools to technical schools, colleges and universities. It will also be available through WorkForce One Employment Centers and the MIASF.

For more information, contact Kelly Allen of WorkForce One at 954-494-6876 or Gordon Connell of MIASF at 954-494-7793, or visit www.miasf.org or www.wf1broward.com for additional details.

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