The Academies of Hampton is Leading the Way in the Maritime Industry

Hampton High School has many traditions to be proud of over the 126 years it has educated students from the Peninsula region. A new, emerging tradition of academic excellence is leading high school graduates directly into maritime careers with pathways into the offshore wind industry. 

Since 2017, students have been enrolled and graduated from one of the 16 wall-to-wall college and career academies within the four high schools in Hampton. The Virginia Ship Repair Association (VSRA) Maritime Academy at Hampton High exposes students to a wide range of careers in the maritime industry and prepares them for 21st century careers in that industry. Through a combination of academic and technical courses and access to state-of-the-art technology and simulation equipment, students are engaged in relevant experiences, both in and outside of the classroom, where they gain the knowledge, skills, and competence to competitively enter high-demand occupations in the workforce. 

The second annual Wind Energy Rocks event held at the Portsmouth Marine Terminal on September 14, provided 20 Hampton High students enrolled in the VSRA Maritime Academy an opportunity to see firsthand how they can apply what they learn in their specialized classes and experiential learning opportunities to the offshore wind industry. Academies of Hampton Coach Christina Kerby, who works directly with the VSRA Maritime Academy teachers, students, and business partners, chaperoned the young people on the visit. Kerby shared, “The opportunities for young people in the trades are enormous.” She continued by sharing that among business partners and industry leaders, “We are a principle player in sparking that interest and imparting the knowledge.” 

The Academies of Hampton are continuing to bridge the gap in the maritime workforce industry and build a pipeline of qualified graduates who are college, career, and life-ready. In upcoming future years, these young people will one day be role models for others entering the offshore wind industry. From WINDSdays point of view, these young people are creating traditions or academic excellence and role models in our region.