Happy 25th Birthday to Us!
June 8 is our founder's day. And this year, we turn 25!
In 1999, former Port of Los Angeles commissioner Carol Rowen founded EXP as the International Trade Education Programs, Inc. (ITEP) with the support of the Port of Los Angeles and maritime and international trade leaders. The organization was established to address the industry's need for a skilled workforce and local high schools' challenges in graduating students.
Today, EXP is celebrating 25 years of helping young people gain experience, unlock doors, and build the confidence they need to succeed in school, career, and life. (Read a full press release here.)
"EXP's founder, Carol Rowen, and our past CEO, Amy Grat, have built a remarkable legacy that touches countless lives," said Mary Tran, CEO of EXP. "I am honored and thrilled to build upon their vision by continuing to bridge the gap between education and business, ensuring that students receive the support and opportunities they need to thrive in their academic and professional pursuits, thus creating a more diverse, equitable, and stronger workforce in our local community."
Over the past 25 years, we have experienced remarkable growth, expanding our reach beyond maritime to connect regional industries with over 8,400 students across Los Angeles and Orange Counties, even reaching as far as the City of Barstow.
In the school year 2022-2023, the organization has successfully connected over 800 industry professionals with year-round volunteer activities and has raised more than $2.5 million to support student success.
To celebrate this significant milestone, we invite you to get involved with our mission to prepare students for a better life.
Now: Support the EXP Internship Program
Since our first internship cohort at Phineas Banning High School in 2001, the EXP Internship Program has helped 11th-grade students access life-changing, hands-on work experiences. Your support is vital in providing direct economic support to 131 internship candidates this summer, allowing them to concentrate fully on their meaningful internship experience.
Next: Launch of the Carol Rowen Legacy Circle Program
In honor of our founder, we are set to launch the Carol Rowen Legacy Circle in the fall of 2024. This initiative will recognize individuals whose ongoing support ensures the availability and expansion of EXP programs for youth in our community.
Next Year: 25th Annual Oceans of Opportunity Awards and Scholarship Celebration
Mark your calendars for April 2025, when we will celebrate its 25th anniversary at the 25th annual Oceans of Opportunity Awards and Scholarship Celebration!
We look forward to celebrating with you!
“Our founder, Carol Rowen, and our past CEO, Amy Grat, have built a remarkable legacy that touches countless lives.”
