Alaska’s Next Wave: Growing the Blue Economy Through Education
In association with 
Right now, the scale of Alaska… makes it so Alaska can be a really important global player in the seafood industry space. But in the mariculture space, there’s a huge opportunity there, and we need workers to do that work.”
— Tommy Sheridan, Director, Alaska Blue Economy Center
Empowering a Homegrown Workforce for Ocean Resilience
Alaska holds over half of the U.S. coastline and a third of its exclusive economic zone—yet faces unprecedented environmental and economic pressures. From declining sea ice and ocean acidification to a shifting job market, the need to build a resilient and sustainable blue economy has never been more urgent. At the heart of this effort is the Alaska Blue Economy Center (ABEC) and partners, who are helping to connect education, workforce development, and ocean innovation to drive lasting change.
This upcoming film explores how ABEC has partnered with others at University of Alaska, including the University of Alaska Southeast Applied Fisheries Program, the University of Alaska Fairbanks Teaching Through Technology Program, and Prince William Sound College at the University of Alaska Anchorage, among others, to develop experiential, place-based programs that prepare Alaskans for careers in fisheries, mariculture, and marine research. Students aren’t just learning in classrooms—they’re gaining real-world experience on vessels, in hatcheries, and on the front lines of conservation.
The stakes are high: Alaska’s mariculture and fisheries sectors power food systems, jobs, and communities across the state—and the nation. By investing in local talent and scaling proven models, ABEC and partners are helping shape a blue economy that works for Alaska’s people, waters, and future.
About Alaska Blue Economy Center
Alaska Blue Economy Center (ABEC) is an economic development initiative at the University of Alaska Fairbanks focused on supporting Alaskan Blue Economy industries, engaging with community partners, and connecting University of Alaska capacities with associated problems and opportunities.
