Nauticus Connects Students to Maritime Jobs with New Program

More than 1,500 students participate in first-of-its-kind STEM to STERN initiative.

Norfolk, Va.— Title 1 schools in Norfolk and Hampton will be among the first to participate in Nauticus’ newly-created program that introduces young students to the vast number of jobs and careers associated with the region’s maritime community.  The first-of-its-kind STEM to STERN Careers Program aligns with Nauticus’ transformational $21.5 million redesign project (“Reimagine Nauticus”).  After participating in educator-led classroom sessions, students will explore Nauticus’ newly designed galleries where they’ll practice welding a ship’s hull, discover diverse careers, and gain a better understanding of the region’s maritime industry.  Earlier this month, the Virginia Maritime Association cited a new study that indicates one in five jobs in Virginia, nearly 730,000 in total, are linked to the maritime community.     

Made possible through grant awards totaling more than $50,000 from the COVA STEM Ecosystem and Howmet Aerospace Foundation, more than 1,500 fourth graders will be first to experience this free instructor-led education series.

“We’re a maritime discovery center committed to introducing local students to meaningful, well-paying jobs along this waterfront,” said Nauticus Director of Education & Community Engagement, Nathan Sandel.  “The STEM to STERN Careers Program eliminates so many perceived obstacles.  We provide the education, we provide the transportation, and we provide the inspiration.”  

Southside STEM Academy, Compass Academy at Ruffner, Lake Taylor School, and Crossroads School are among the first schools to participate in the program throughout the 2024-2025 school year.

About Nauticus
The STEM to STERN Careers program and other initiatives are made possible through the Nauticus Foundation.  The Nauticus Foundation is the nonprofit, 501©3 that supports the mission and activities of Nauticus. Nauticus’ mission is to benefit the community through education, impactful experiences, and sharing access to maritime resources. For more information, visit www.nauticus.org.

About Reimagine Nauticus
To learn more about the Reimagine Nauticus campaign or to see current updates about the project, please visit https://nauticus.org/reimagine-nauticus/