This summer, the Port Authority of the Cayman Islands (PACI) provided 9 Caymanian students (7 university students and 2 high school students) with firsthand experience in various operations at the Port. The shipping industry is vital to the world’s economy – approximately 90 percent of world trade is seaborne. Offering internships at the Port opens students’ minds to the possibilities in this dynamic industry. Students are able to appreciate how each department works together to achieve the overall goals of the Port, serve Caymanians and the Cayman Islands’ economy, and provide access to the world for people and products.
David Rivers, 20, University of Brighton student, is currently working in our Facilities department (Grand Cayman). “My experience at the Port has been exciting. It has definitely been a learning experience. Every day is different and there is always something new to learn. Everyone that I have worked with has been willing to answer questions and teach me”, he said.
University College of the Cayman Islands (UCCI) (Cayman Brac campus) student, Eugene Myles, 18, said, “This has been a very good experience learning about different trades. Although I am working with the Security department at the Brac Port, I have been given the opportunity to learn about the various types of equipment and operations.”
Johnathan Woods, 17, Cayman Academy student, who interned with our Mechanic department, said, “Working with the Port has benefited me. I was given the opportunity to work alongside different departments like Facilities and Administration, as well as Fleet.”
PACI also plans to take part in various career expos in the future, as we believe that it is necessary to reach out to students to try to gain their interest in the shipping industry and educate them on the extensive list of career possibilities, not just on island but overseas as well.
Pictured L–R: David Rivers, University of Brighton; Mishka Ysaguirrie, UCCI; Jordan Parsons, UCCI; Miguel Riverol, UCCI; Alikie Kandler, Keiser University; Johnathan Woods, Cayman Academy. Not shown: Derrymore Lyon, University of Kansas; Eugene Myles, UCCI; Philip-Andrew Sciamonte, St. Ignatius Catholic School.
