Ocean Institute Hosts College and Career Fair on March 12

Helping young people explore career paths revolving around our oceans and the blue economy

(DANA POINT, CA): Ocean Institute is delighted to host a Virtual Marine and Environmental Sciences College and Career Fair on March 12. This free event runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is sponsored by Surf Industry Members Association (SIMA). Attendees will learn about higher education programs and career paths in marine and environmental sciences.

The fair will feature student and alumni panels, live presentations, small-group chats, and exhibitor booths from Cal Poly Humboldt, Stony Brook University, and the University of New England. Contributing speakers and institutions include Audrey Crouse (Orange Coast College), Joshua Coco (University of Miami), Mark Okihiro (California Department of Fish and Wildlife), Sonia Vedral (Program for Local Adaptation Climate Effects: Sea-Level Rise).

“Last year was the first time we offered this type of event. Because of the success we experienced with over 1,100 participants, we wanted to expand our 2022 fair by offering deep dives into various career pathways,” said Dr. Wendy Marshall, Ocean Institute President/CEO. “Although we had originally envisioned the fair to attract high school students, we also had attendees from community colleges who were looking at their transfer options.”

“We are excited to be part of Ocean Institute’s Virtual College and Career Fair, where young people will be introduced to a host of career paths revolving around our oceans and the blue economy. Creating on-ramps for young people to get involved in the ocean—whether through recreation, education or career development—can only help to protect our marine environments,” said Vipe Desai, Executive Director for the Surf Industry Members Association and Ocean Institute Board Member.