Resources for Careers in Aquaculture
Aquaculture Training and Internship Programs in Virginia
- Oyster Aquaculture Training (OAT) Program
This is a six-month paid internship at VIMS Gloucester Point from March-July. The OAT program offers prospective shellfish aquaculturists an opportunity to learn about all aspects of oyster culture, from hatchery to field operations - essentially, it is an oyster culture "boot camp." To participate you must provide your own transportation. Lodging is not included, but assistance will be offered in helping you find accommodations. Click here to download the OAT program brochure and the OAT curriculum flyer.
- VIMS ESL Internship
This is paid summer research opportunity for local (ESVA) high school and college students. - VIMS Oyster Farm Apprentice
This is a six-month paid apprenticeship from ~May to October at VIMS Gloucester Point. The Commercial Shellfish Aquaculture Lab & Team (C-SALT) at VIMS recruits one apprentice each year to learn the ropes of oyster farming on the C-SALT 1-acre research farm in the York River. It is intended to prepare an individual to enter the commercial shellfish aquaculture workforce.
External Aquaculture Training Links
- Free Online Aquaculture Farmhand Training from the East Coast Shellfish Growers Association.
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Maine Aquaculture Occupational Standards for Shellfish and Sea Vegetable Farms provides a clear and comprehensive understanding of the specific technical skills and knowledge critical for the most common careers in each sector. It is developed for aquafarms in Maine but relevant to Virginia bivalve shellfish farms.
More Information About Careers in the Aquaculture
- Careers in Aquaculture & Aquaponics [Website]
- Spotlight on Virginia Oyster Farms [Video]
- Careers in Mariculture [Video]
- SCORE [Website] is the nation's largest network of volunteer, expert business mentors offers free mentoring and educational workshops to help small businesses.