Workforce Development

Vocational Training Program

In summer 2024, we offered our inaugural vocational training program - an opportunity for aspiring Coral Reef Restoration Technicians to receive hands-on skills training directly from experts in the field. The training was intended for those interested in a career in coral restoration, and by the end of the summer, we successfully ushered program trainees through marketable skills for landing a job in restoration, with particular emphasis on the stresses facing coral reefs in West Hawaii.
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Applications for summer 2025 are not yet open. Reach out to KaterHiney@asu.edu for more information about the program.

Skills Training From Experts in Restoration

This four-week fast-paced bootcamp provides the skills necessary to restore reefs in the nursery, on the water, and in the lab, working with coral reef restoration organizations in West Hawaiʻi and will include curriculum such as:

Hawaiʻi coral and fish identification
Land-based coral nursery standard operating procedures
Coral restoration techniques
Tank monitoring and data collection, feeding and cleaning
Restoration outplanting and monitoring methodology
Vessel operations and safety, emergency protocols

Trainees wearing lei stand holding corals with their instructor in a coral nursery

Requirements

Applicants must be over 18 years of age and interested in a career in coral reef restoration in Hawaiʻi. Must have strong swimming skills and be able to snorkel. Comfortable working outdoors, around seawater, in the sun, and in contact with marine organisms. Must be able and willing to work long and irregular hours, including occasional weekends and evenings.

Training will be located in varying locations, between ʻĀkoʻakoʻa Ridge to Reef Restoration Center and land-based coral nursery (3RC), and Honokōhau Small Boat Harbor, Kailua-Kona.

The deadline for application to the summer 2024 program has passed. If you are interested in knowing more about this program, please reach out to KaterHiney@asu.edu.