ATHENS – At a time when the future of work and sustainability dominate global discussions, a quieter but equally important question remains: how do we prepare young people early enough to understand— and participate in the industries that shape our world?
Through Project Connect, a Greek American-led non-profit organization, one compelling answer has already taken shape.
Today, the Adopt a Ship program connects classrooms in Greece, New York, and Florida with real vessels at sea, allowing students to follow global voyages while engaging with geography, trade, and maritime life in a practical, meaningful way. More than 4,000 pupils are currently participating, gaining exposure not only to knowledge—but to the realities of the professional world.
At the center of this effort is trailblazer Irene K. Notias, a Greek-American from Brooklyn who chose to also reside in Greece, bringing with her a strong sense of American work ethic, discipline, and opportunity-driven thinking.
After more than two decades in the global shipping industry— working closely with leading shipowners and building a trusted international network—she redirected her experience toward a long-standing gap: the disconnect between education and industry.
Students read the captain’s letter as they learn about the global shipping industry. Photo: Courtesy of Project Connect
Even prior to the formal establishment of Project Connect, and particularly in the period following the Greek financial crisis, Irene K. Notias was already actively supporting young people in entering the shipping sector— often in a direct and personal way. Through her Connect CV–HR Platform, and at times simply by leveraging her industry relationships, she helped young candidates secure interviews and placements in Greece and the United Kingdom, offering practical access to an otherwise difficult-to-enter field.
This hands-on approach has since evolved into a more structured pathway.
Over the past 12 years, more than 1,100 classrooms have participated; 700 teachers have integrated the program; over 400 captains have engaged with students; and over 170 young individuals have entered the shipping sector through internships, entry-level, and junior positions.
Students learning about the global shipping industry. Photo: Courtesy of Project Connect
Equally important is the program’s diaspora dimension. Since 2015, Project Connect has been active in the United States, working with Hellenic Charter Schools and Greek-American communities— helping young members of the diaspora reconnect not only with their heritage, but with one of Greece’s most globally influential industries.
Through Adopt a Ship, the maritime world becomes accessible, tangible, and inspiring— while strengthening ties between Greece and its global Hellenism.
In an era where industries seek future talent and societies seek meaningful education, this model offers something both simple and powerful:
Start earlier. Connect deeper.
Irene K. Notias, Director of Project Connect. Photo: Courtesy of Project Connect
Because the future of maritime leadership, and of a globally aware workforce, begins not at sea— but in the classroom.
Project Connect will be participating for its third time at the internationally renowned Posidonia 2026 in Greece with a stand June 1-5 and a brief conference for its Adopt a Ship teachers of Greece and its Shipping industry membership, June 4.
Anyone interested in joining or attending, email: [email protected]