What is Ocean Career Quest?
This immersive program takes place aboard a floating classroom (one of PacWhale Eco-Adventures’ vessels) on which participants can learn marine science basics through firsthand experiences, meet and talk with experts about career paths, acquire new skills, and have lots of fun along the way!
Pricing
Through generous donor support, this program is offered at no cost to selected participants.
Application
To apply you must be:
- Currently in 6th–8th grade and living and/or going to school on Maui
- Able to attend all five days of the selected Ocean Career Quest program
- Curious about careers in marine science and ocean conservation
- Enthusiastic about expanding knowledge and trying new things
Priority will be given to Native Hawaiian applicants as an effort to increase representation in marine science and ocean conservation fields.
Schedule
Schedule coming soon!
Location
Ocean Career Quest takes place on board a PacWhale Eco-Adventures vessel and in our Discovery Center in Ma’alaea Harbor.
Ocean Career Quest Internship Program
The Ocean Career Quest high school internship program is a 6-week, paid, workforce development program, designed to introduce Maui students to the possibility of careers in ocean and environmental sustainability here on Maui. Our hope is that students will discover the many ways they can turn their passion for the ocean into a future career.
What Will Interns Do?
Throughout the program, interns will have opportunities to:
- Learn about various Careers in ocean sciences and environmental sustainability.
- Meet and network with Maui professionals
- Build Professional Skills
- Gain experience
Pacific Whale Foundation will host Ocean Career Quest interns. Interns will be matched with and placed at an organization and career area that aligns with their interests and professional goals.
Internship opportunities are available in the following areas:
- Ocean Education
- Marine Research
- Community Outreach
- ʻĀina Restoration
Application
Coming soon!
Schedule
Summer 2027, June-July.
6-week program, approximately 20-30 hrs a week.
Eligibility Requirements
- High school junior- or senior-year status on first day of the internship
- At least 16 years-of-age on the first day of the internship
- Letter of recommendation from a teacher, school counselor, mentor, or other professional reference (Recommendations from family members will not be accepted).
- Application and Q&A interest form.
Have Questions?
For questions about the program or to be added to our Ocean Career Quest email list, contact: [email protected]