HISD has announced a new partnership with Chevron Shipping Company LLC (Chevron) to enhance Career and Technical Education (CTE) programming within the District.

The Austin High School Maritime Studies program, in association with Port of Houston Partnership in Maritime Education, is one of four new innovative programs of study within HISD’s CTE offerings. Students will learn to use state-of-the-art simulation equipment, gain professional certifications, and develop skills to help them obtain high-paying careers in the maritime industry. This partnership will include guest lectures, mentorship opportunities with industry experts, and workforce development.

“Career and Technical Education is a critical component in preparing our students for the high-demand, high-skill jobs that are shaping the future of our workforce,” said Superintendent Mike Miles. “By aligning our CTE programs with industry needs, we’re ensuring students have a direct pathway to rewarding careers in fields like maritime and shipping. This partnership is about giving our students real-world experience and opportunities that position them well after graduation.”

Superintendent Miles and representatives from Chevron and the Port of Houston participated in a signing ceremony at Austin High School to officially launch the partnership. The event featured a tour of the school’s maritime-focused classrooms, which will serve as a hands-on learning environment for students pursuing maritime careers.

“Chevron Shipping takes great pride in supporting the communities in which we operate, and we are excited to join forces with Austin High,” said Barbara Pickering, president of Chevron Shipping Company.  “With a national and worldwide labor shortage in maritime related careers, this partnership will provide needed resources and open doors for students to pursue the abundant and lucrative career paths in the maritime industry – here in Houston and around the world.”

This first-of-its-kind public-private partnership reflects HISD’s commitment to preparing students for the jobs of the future and aligns with the District’s broader Destination 2035 initiative to create world-class learning experiences for every student. As HISD expands its CTE programs, this partnership will serve as a model for future collaborations between the District and industry leaders, helping students gain the skills and knowledge needed for success in the evolving job market.

See highlights from the signing event attached to this release and through this link.