New high school marine science mentorship programme launches

AltaSea, in collaboration with Hugo Neu Corporation, New York/New Jersey Baykeeper, and the Boys & Girls Club of Newark (BGCN), has announced the launch of the 2024 Ocean Pathways High School Research Mentorship Programme. 

AltaSea at the Port of Los Angeles is an ocean technology campus that focuses on marine science, research, and education. With 27 tenants dedicated to ocean innovation, AltaSea collaborates with numerous colleges and universities to find solutions to climate change through the ocean.

The six-week initiative offers high school students from Los Angeles, New York, and New Jersey practical experience and mentorship in marine biology, sustainability, and environmental conservation. The programme will be hosted at AltaSea and Hugo Neu’s Kearny Point campus in New Jersey.

In its second year, the Ocean Pathways programme aims to harness the strengths of AltaSea and Kearny Point to promote innovation and growth on both coasts. The programme will provide students with hands-on learning opportunities in areas such as sustainable aquaculture, renewable energy solutions, and other blue economy technologies.

AltaSea President & CEO Terry Tamminen emphasised the importance of this initiative, stating:

“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.

“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.”

Students in the programme will work with leading scientists, educators, and environmental advocates from AltaSea, Hugo Neu, and NY/NJ Baykeeper. They will participate in fieldwork, data collection, and analysis, gaining insights into the environmental challenges facing our oceans. This year's programme will also feature field trips and interactive workshops to enhance students' understanding of marine ecosystems and sustainable ocean practices.

A new partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of Newark will involve students from underrepresented communities in Essex County, New Jersey. These students will gain hands-on research experience and contribute to data collection and analysis, helping them understand the challenges facing our oceans. 

NY/NJ Baykeeper will enable students to participate in local water body cleanliness and restoration, aligning with the organisation's commitment to community empowerment through experiential education. Participants will develop practical skills and cultivate an appreciation for environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.

Wendy Neu, CEO of Hugo Neu Corporation, expressed enthusiasm for continuing the programme, saying:

"We are excited to continue the Ocean Pathways mentorship with AltaSea and NY/NJ Baykeeper. 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 programme."