Program Overview
Hawai‘ i’s aquaculture industry is rapidly expanding, creating an urgent need for a skilled, locally trained workforce. To address this need, Oceanic Institute of Hawai‘ i Pacific University (OI) developed the Aquaculture Workforce Development Program (AWDP). The program is designed to build a strong pipeline of job-ready professionals through hands-on training and direct industry engagement.
The AWDP is currently in its first year and has a goal of training up to 18 undergraduate students per year. Students participate in immersive, paid training experiences at OI and partner aquaculture facilities around the state, gaining practical skills across multiple areas of aquaculture, including finfish, shrimp, and live feed production. By combining biological, engineering, and data management training, the program prepares students to meet the evolving needs of Hawai‘ i’s aquaculture sector and supports long-term industry growth.
The Aquaculture Workforce Development Program is currently funded by a grant from the Center for Tropical and Subtropical Aquaculture (CTSA). CTSA is one of five Regional Aquaculture Centers supported by the US Department of Agriculture.
A list of current and recent trainees is provided below. Potential employers are encouraged to review the linked CVs and contact students directly.
Current Trainees
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