AltaSea – one of the world's leading research and development hubs for marine technology – has announced the launch of its 2024 Ocean Pathways High School Research Mentorship programme, developed alongside Hugo Neu Corporation, New York/New Jersey Baykeeper, and the Boys and Girls Club of Newark (BGCN). The six-week programme provides high school students in Los Angeles, New York, and New Jersey with firsthand research experience and mentorship opportunities in marine biology, sustainable aquaculture, and environmental conservation.
“Almost 40 percent of all Americans live along a coastline, so it’s important to provide the tools and develop the skills necessary for the next generation to capture the opportunities in the blue economy,” said AltaSea chief executive Terry Tamminen, in a press release.
“By fostering a deep understanding and passion for marine science and sustainability at a young age, we are investing in a brighter, more sustainable future for our oceans and our communities,” he added.
Participants in this year’s programme will engage in field work, data collection, and analysis alongside leading marine scientists and innovators, and will gain valuable insights into the challenges facing our oceans and the environment at large. This year’s programme will also include field trips and interactive workshops designed to deepen students’ understanding of marine ecosystems and the technologies driving sustainable ocean practices.
“Last year's program demonstrated the value of providing students with practical experience and research methods focusing on marine biology and environmental conservation. This year, we look forward to reaching more students and further enhancing their understanding of sustainability and the blue economy through this collaborative bi-coastal program," said Hugo Neu Corporation chief executive Wendy Neu.
The programme is open to high school students in the Los Angeles and New York/New Jersey areas. Through a new partnership with the Boys and Girls Club of Newark, this year the Ocean Pathways programme will engage students from the underrepresented communities of Essex County, New Jersey, providing them with hands-on research experience and empowering them to contribute meaningfully to data collection and analysis, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges facing our oceans.
