Workforce
Development
Beyond the research itself, a core part of VICAR’s mission is strengthening educational pathways for Virgin Islanders. The project includes a comprehensive STEM education and workforce development program designed to build local expertise in marine science, robotics, and AI.
We are creating pathways that connect students from middle school all the way to graduate school and into careers.
For younger students, VICAR supports and expands hands-on learning programs, like Mangroves in the Classroom, Corals in the Classroom, and Youth Ocean Explorers. To spark interest in technology and marine science, we are introducing new “ecological robotics and AI” modules into these programs – fun, interactive activities co-designed with local educators. This way, island students can see how cutting-edge tech is used to study their own backyard ecosystems.
Graduate and Undergraduate Students
At the University level, VICAR is strengthening UVI’s capacity to train the next generation of scientists and engineers. We are providing paid internships and research opportunities in the marine sciences for undergraduates, placing students in summer and academic-year positions at local agencies, nonprofits, and research labs. These internships expose students to careers in marine biology, environmental management, ocean technology, and science education, giving them real-world experience and professional networks. For graduate students, VICAR is supporting UVI’s Master of Marine and Environmental Science program by offering graduate research assistantships, tuition support, and mentorship for up to 20 students over the project’s duration.
VICAR is also helping develop new courses at UVI – including courses in Ecological Robotics and AI – to give both upper-level undergraduates and graduate students interdisciplinary training at the intersection of marine science and technology.
Through these efforts, VICAR is dedicated to cultivating a skilled local workforce that can sustain the Territory’s marine research and drive a growing blue economy.
By inspiring young students, supporting university scholars, and engaging teachers and professionals, we are ensuring that the knowledge and technology developed by VICAR will continue to live on in the hands of Virgin Islanders. This way, the future of marine science and innovation in the USVI will be home-grown – empowering our community to protect our natural resources and seize new economic opportunities for decades to come.