Port of Los Angeles: A Partnership that Changes Lives
Angelica (center) with EXP summer interns
Angelica Velazquez (Phineas Banning High School, Class of 2022) found her career inspiration from the EXP and the Port of Los Angeles partnership, setting her on a life-changing path to success.
In the summer of 2021, Angelica took part in the EXP Internship Program and worked at the Port’s Risk Management Division. Though the internship was virtual due to the pandemic, she worked on real tasks, gaining tangible and transferable skills.
Angelica went on to attend UCLA. She returned to the Port every summer as a student worker in the Waterfront and Commercial Real Estate division. The Port entrusted her with a new project each summer. She learned and grew her skills from each experience. One project included planning events with the Amerigo Vespucci, an Italian navy ship on a world tour.
Her experience has come full circle. This summer, Angelica mentored the next generation of EXP interns at the Port, supervising them as they inspected a Port property in Wilmington. (Picture above, Angelica in the center with EXP interns.)
“It means a lot when people believe in you and provide a path to help you start your future, especially coming from an underserved community like Wilmington,” Angelica added. “EXP is invaluable for all the young people who have the opportunity to participate, and I carry it with me.”
Angelica is set to graduate in 2026 with a B.A. in International Development Studies with minors in Global Health and Community Engagement & Social Change. She credited her success to the Port staff.
“Every single person in this division trusted and respected me as a student, individual, and employee, offering advice and help at every point in life,” said Angelica. “With their support and belief in me, I have gained confidence in myself and my future career.”
“EXP is invaluable for all the young people who have the opportunity to participate, and I carry it with me.”
Angelica’s story shows what a strong partnership between EXP and the Port of Los Angeles can provide for youth in our community.
The Port was on the ground floor with EXP, supporting our formation and vision to bridge opportunity gaps for students in underserved communities.
Together, EXP and the Port have built a robust opportunity pipeline for local high school youth that:
Provides paid internships in real Port divisions.
Helps develop workplace skills, from professional communication to project ownership.
Builds network visibility into high-growth industries and meaningful career pathways.
Strengthens communities by investing in local youth.
“For more than 25 years, the Port of Los Angeles has partnered with EXP to strengthen workforce pathways in trade, logistics, and the maritime industry,” said Cecilia Moreno, Director of Community Relations for the Port. “The success of Angelica – and her commitment to helping other EXP interns – underscores how this investment delivers benefits for young people, our communities and industry.”
We are honored to continue this journey with the Port of Los Angeles. Together, we’re building opportunities—from the docks to the dreams of our students.