Virtual Event Oct. 20 for Maui Youth Interested in Marine Science Careers

The Maui Huliau Foundation is hosting a virtual “Careers in Conservation: Marine Science” event Oct. 20 for Maui youth, ages 12 to 22, who are interested in pursuing marine science careers.

Seven Maui professionals from different marine science backgrounds will discuss their jobs, career paths and inspiration to help protect the ocean. The presenters represent a range of marine science backgrounds from community-based marine resource management to coral research and restoration. 

The marine science virtual event is part of a series of five virtual events hosted by the Maui Huliau Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to promoting environmental literacy and leadership among Maui’s youth.

The series is offered throughout the school year to connect Maui youth with Maui professionals who represent diverse local careers in conservation and sustainability. The series is shown via Zoom, with the Huliau Alumni Council facilitating breakout rooms where students can engage in an informal Q&A with the presenters. 

“Maui Huliau’s Careers in Conservation series offers students a glimpse into the job force, empowering youth to explore different career pathways in conservation,” said Hannah Shipman, Huliau Alumni Council co-founder. “They will have the opportunity to network with professionals, alumni and team members, which will ignite their curiosity and passion, and inspire their path to college and thriving careers.” 

In May 2021, a virtual career event featured 25 professionals from multiple career fields. This new series will group speakers by a single career field, giving students the opportunity to learn more about the specific career field they are interested in pursing or learning more.

The series includes five career fields:

• marine science
• watershed protection
• sustainable agriculture
• ʻāina-based stewardship and education
• sustainable infrastructure, law and policy

“I cannot emphasize enough the importance of mentoring our youth to become the next generation of ʻāina stewards Hawaiʻi needs,” said Serena Fukushima of Maui Invasive Species Committee. “This event will help connect budding conservationists to established professionals, giving them tools and connections to help them move forward in their career goals.”

Youth living in Maui County between the ages of 12 and 22 can join this free event via Zoom from 4 – 5:30 pm on October 20 by registering on the Maui Huliau Foundation website by Monday, Oct. 18 at: https://mauihuliaufoundation.org/careers-in-conservation.

On the website, students can read the presenter bios and also explore career resources and opportunities such as jobs, internships, fellowships, and scholarship resources, listed there. 

Teachers are encouraged to spread the word to their students and also encouraged to check out the many teaching resources including virtual field trips, filmmaking resources and virtual classroom activities on Maui Huliau Foundation’s website.