Crowley and Junior Achievement Americas Launch Workforce Development for Students in Puerto Rico

Crowley Expands Workforce Development Support Through Junior Achievement Americas Partnership

Crowley, a prominent maritime and logistics solutions provider, has joined forces with Junior Achievement Americas (JAA) to bolster workforce development opportunities in Puerto Rico. This initiative aims to connect over 350 students with career pathways in the critical sectors of maritime, logistics, and supply chain management. Puerto Rico's economy heavily relies on these industries, as approximately 80 percent of its imports arrive via the island's ports.

Since 2022, this partnership has made significant strides, impacting around 9,000 students across the United States mainland and Central America. Notably, in 2025, Crowley was recognized as Company of the Year by Junior Achievement of Northeast Florida, a testament to its commitment to youth education and workforce readiness. The company's recent sponsorship of $40,000 will significantly enhance its outreach in Puerto Rico, providing students with essential career readiness programs.

On September 18, Crowley welcomed nearly 60 local students to its Isla Grande terminal in San Juan. This hands-on experience allowed students to engage with Crowley employees and tour the facilities, including the impressive ConRo vessel, Taino. Such initiatives not only provide practical knowledge but also inspire students to consider careers in maritime transportation and logistics, which are vital to the island's economic structure.

In collaboration with the Puerto Rico Department of Education, Crowley and JAA will implement career and technical education (CTE) programs in local public high schools. Targeted at students aged 15 to 19, this curriculum will offer critical skills and experiences that enhance employability and enable students to navigate the complexities of today’s job market. Students will participate in activities focused on self-awareness, networking, interview preparation, and industry engagement, including mentorship opportunities that will guide them towards fruitful careers.

Francheska Bensan, Crowley’s Vice President of HR and Talent Strategy, highlighted the initiative’s dual focus: “This partnership is about connecting students with real possibilities while investing in Puerto Rico's future. By merging JAA’s career-readiness curriculum with Crowley's logistics expertise, we pave the way for rewarding careers that fuel the island's growth.”

Likewise, Noël Zemborain, President of Junior Achievement Americas, emphasized the importance of equipping young individuals with practical skills. “We believe in preparing young people for tomorrow by providing them with essential tools and experiences. This partnership enables us to extend our reach and empower more youth to contribute positively to their communities and the broader Puerto Rican economy,” Zemborain stated.

Eliezer Ramos Parés, Secretary of Education of Puerto Rico, echoed these sentiments, underscoring the program's potential impact on the students. “Through this unique opportunity, students can gain firsthand exposure to vital sectors such as maritime transportation, logistics, and supply chain management. Effective education marries classroom knowledge with real-world application,” he noted.

Beyond its financial commitment, Crowley employees will actively participate in various engagement activities, such as career panels and job-shadowing experiences, projected to reach 50 to 100 students annually. These initiatives provide students with direct insight into the industries that underpin Puerto Rico’s economy.

The partnership between Crowley and JAA builds upon a broader commitment to developing career readiness programs since 2022. Crowley aims to support the future workforce, ensuring that students not only acquire theoretical knowledge but also the practical skills necessary to thrive in the modern job landscape. This collaborative effort represents a significant investment in the next generation and in the sustainable economic development of Puerto Rico. With over 130 years of experience, Crowley continues to play a pivotal role in connecting communities through its maritime and logistics services, thereby enhancing the quality of life in Puerto Rico and beyond.

By fostering these educational and career development programs, both Crowley and Junior Achievement Americas hope to inspire a new generation of professionals who will contribute to the long-term viability and prosperity of Puerto Rico.