The Gaston Point College and Career Readiness Institute hosted a special recognition event on Thursday, April 30, at 8:00 a.m., celebrating high school seniors from across Harrison County who are preparing to enter the workforce through specialized career academies.
This event highlights students enrolled in the Shipbuilding Academy, Energy Academy, and Water Academy—innovative workforce development programs designed to connect education with high-demand industry careers along the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
These academies are made possible through strong partnerships with industry leaders, including Huntington Ingalls Industries, H2O Innovation, Harrison County Utility Authority, and Mississippi Power. Through these collaborations, students gain hands-on experience, industry insight, and valuable certifications that prepare them for immediate employment after graduation.
A highlight of this year’s event is the recognition of the inaugural Water Academy graduating class—the first of its kind in the state of Mississippi. This milestone represents a significant step forward in building a sustainable workforce pipeline in the water and utility sector.
Participating students represent a collective effort among local school districts, including Gulfport High School, West Harrison High School, Harrison Central High School, D'Iberville High School, Biloxi High School, Long Beach High School, and Pass Christian High School. These schools have worked collaboratively to strengthen workforce development initiatives and expand career pathways for students across the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
Many of the seniors being recognized will graduate with industry-recognized certifications and transition directly into careers with supporting partner companies—demonstrating the success and impact of these programs in preparing students for real-world opportunities.
“This event is a celebration of partnership, preparation, and possibility,” said event organizers. “We are incredibly proud of our students, our school districts, and our industry partners who are working together to build the future workforce of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.”
For more information, please contact Gulfport School District Public Relations: Beth Wilson (228) 897-6031 or Gracie Barnes (228) 865-4619.
