Georgia Ports’ YES+ Program Earns National Apprenticeship Recognition

The Georgia Ports Authority’s YES+ (Youth Education and Soft Skills) Training Program has won national recognition by the U.S. Department of Labor as a Registered Apprenticeship Program, marking a major milestone in GPA’s commitment to workforce development and career readiness.

“With this new status, the YES+ Training Program is well-positioned to expand its impact and help build the next generation of talent that will keep Georgia’s ports moving forward,” said GPA Chief Human Resources Officer Lise Altman.

The designation aligns the YES+ Training Program with nationally recognized workforce standards and enables participants to earn a credential recognized by employers, workforce agencies, and educational institutions nationwide. It also positions Georgia Ports to further strengthen its workforce pipeline and expand opportunities for future growth.

Since its launch in 2018, the YES+ Training Program has provided recent high school graduates with a pathway to careers in the maritime and logistics industry through hands-on training, mentorship, and professional development opportunities.

“The Registered Apprenticeship Program designation is a significant achievement for the Georgia Ports’ YES+ Training Program,” said Tanya Chisholm, GPA Director of Workforce Development & Training. “It recognizes the value of our training module and provides graduates with a nationally recognized credential.  Most importantly, it demonstrates GPA’s commitment to investing in people and developing a highly skilled workforce for the future.”

Graduates in the YES+ Training Program have advanced into essential operational and technical roles, including equipment operators, crane mechanics, crane technicians, and other port operations positions. Port officials said the program provides real-world experience, giving trainees the skills and confidence to succeed in a fast-paced industry.

Internship Program

Georgia Ports Authority’s annual internship program provides real-world work experience at one of the country’s premier seaports to traditional college students.

The timeframe for the 2026 Summer Internship has ended. We are no longer accepting applications for this cycle.