Global Trade

Interested in a career in international trade? Use this guide to obtain information about the different industries, both private and public, which can help you seize the opportunities provided by international trade.

International trade

International trade is involved in everything we own or use— from the food we eat to the cars on the road, the clothing we wear and even the roads and bridges that contribute to every city’s infrastructure. Its presence continues to grow and contribute to the global economy, helping to shape opportunities for prosperity around the world, and particularly here in California.

Careers in Trade

More than four million jobs in California can be attributed to international trade. With more than 95 percent of the world’s population living beyond U.S. borders, international trade has become a necessary bridge to provide businesses with the access and ability to expand. Technology has granted people incredible access to the world at the click of their fingertips. Companies can enter the global marketplace, launch offices abroad, and even take advantage of trade agreements to export and import from across the world.

International Markets

As more businesses branch out to foreign markets, opportunities for those interested in international business, trade policy and international affairs will increase. Multinational corporations, joint ventures, financial institutions, law firms, consulting agencies, and manufacturers of both goods and services cater to a growing international clientele. As a result, both public and private businesses find themselves employing a large number of individuals to handle international-related issues and business.

Explore Careers In Global Trade

Los Angeles Region Global Trade Career Guide

Produced by the CA Community Colleges, in partnership with the L.A. Area Chamber of Commerce, this comprehensive Career Guide provides high school and college students with an opportunity to explore careers in Global Trade in SoCal. It is designed not only for students, but also to assist teachers, counselors, and others to infuse Global Trade in their pathways and programs.

This guide is unique in that it is regional, highlights local employers, and spotlights local professionals so students see the global opportunities in their local communities. While there are different levels of expertise required for careers in Global Trade, this guide will show you the many middle-skill positions available in the Los Angeles Region.

Los Angeles Region Global Trade Career Guide
  • Global Trade

Our Sponsor

The Los Angeles Region Global Trade Sector of California Community Colleges is proud to sponsor the World Trade Week Celebration.

The goals of Global Trade are to supply in-demand skills, create relevant career pathways, and get students into open jobs. The world economy is becoming increasingly global, and graduates with global marketing, ecommerce and supply chain management skills will continue to be in demand. As a priority sector of California Community Colleges, we equip the next generation of leaders in international trade through our 19 community colleges in LA County. Educators with a wide range of global expertise are at the helm, giving students relevant, real-world experiences inside and outside the classroom.

With two of the largest ports, and one of the busiest airports in the United States in our own backyard, it is critical now more than ever for Los Angeles, and for California, that we provide students with the knowledge and background necessary to compete for jobs in today’s global ecosystem. However, jobs in the Global Trade sector go far beyond airports and Shipping ports.

It’s not unheard of for California companies to seek out candidates to fill hundreds of thousands of positions in export-oriented jobs and supply chain/logistics occupations in a single year. These companies need individuals who are well versed in subjects of trade financing, eCommerce, customs, and international transportation, and who understand cultural and ethical issues that come up when doing business with suppliers and customers around the world. We prepare students for the opportunities to be part of the global marketplace whether they hope to work for a company, or want to start their own.

Visit The Global Trade website to learn more about our Sector, and visit the California Community Colleges website to find programs that will make you workforce ready.

We Have an AMAZING Scholarship Program!

The World Trade Week committee offers scholarships to aspiring students in international trade fields. Scholarships are awarded to outstanding graduating high school seniors entering an accredited college or university with the goal of a career in international trade, as well as college students pursuing international degrees. By fostering international trade education and international business development, the committee hopes to develop a network of international trade professionals willing to provide mentoring to future students interested in international business. Learn more

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