WISE–Workforce Industry STEM Explorations

by Mote Marine Laboratory

Workforce Industry STEM Explorations (WISE) offer a virtual look into the careers that power modern aquarium science, conservation, and marine research at the Mote Science Education Aquarium. Each session connects learners with working professionals, showcases real tools and technologies used across veterinary care, coral restoration, fisheries and aquaculture research, and sustainable aquarium operations, and highlights how data, problem solving, and hands-on skills shape daily decisions in these fields. Through live camera views, practical examples, and discussion of training pathways, volunteer roles, and internship opportunities, learners gain insight into the wide range of workforce options available in zoos, aquariums, and marine science programs while exploring how they can begin building skills for future STEM careers.

A great choice for 9–12 classrooms, early college, adult lifelong learners, homeschool groups, corporate teams, and public libraries.

Choose from any of the following topics. Please note your choice under Additional Information for Content Provider to Know when booking.

STEM Workforce Development Labs

These programs may feature live animals. Mote is proud to be accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), meeting rigorous professional standards for animal care, wildlife conservation, research, and education.

Program Rating

based on 1 evaluation(s).

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About This Program

Cost

By Request: $180.00
By Request Premium: $162.00

Programming available 9:00 am–5:30 pm ET. Explorations should be booked at least three weeks in advance so we can coordinate with animal care staff and confirm your focal animal’s availability. Scheduling may be affected by weather or veterinary priorities. Weekend and after hours (5:30 pm ET) requests are available for an additional fee.

Billing Questions: please contact our Operations & Administration Manager (educate@mote.org, 941-388-4441;348).

Sarasota Teachers: Our EdExploreSRQ listings are eligible for funding from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, as well as the Education Foundation of Sarasota County. Find out how to fund your virtual field trip.

Length

Up to 60 minutes (with time for Q&A)

Target Audience

Education: Grade(s) 9, 10, 11, 12, Teacher(s)/Educator(s), Adult Learners, Learning PodPublic Library: Library Patrons, Library Staff

Minimum participants:

Maximum participants:

100

Primary Disciplines

Online Learning/Digital Learning , Online Learning/Digital Learning , Career & Technical Education (CTE), Economics/Business, Industrial Technology, Science, STEM, Technology/Information Science, AI (Artificial Intelligence)

Program Delivery Mode

Zoom

Booking Information

Mote reserves the right to modify program content or schedules as needed. Changes made by Mote do not qualify for a refund. Program elements may vary due to weather or veterinary needs. While we strive to deliver all experiences as described, a mix of live and pre-recorded video may be used to maintain program quality.

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Receive this program and 9 more for one low price when you purchase the CILC Virtual Expeditions package. Learn more

For more information contact CILC by email info@cilc.org or by phone (507) 388-3672

Provider's Cancellation Policy

Effective 7/1/2025, the following Cancellation, Rescheduling & Program Policies apply to Mote Virtual Focus Trips.

About This Provider

Mote Marine Laboratory

Sarasota, FL
United States

Experience the wonders of the ocean from the comfort of your own classroom or home with Mote Marine Laboratory's Virtual Focus Trips! As a world-class, AZA-accredited nonprofit marine research institution, we bring the excitement of authentic research and hands-on learning to you. From chatting with a shark trainer in the stunning new Mote Science Education Aquarium, to exploring the Florida Keys and observing coral reefs like a real scientist, our virtual lessons are designed to engage and inspire your students. Aligned with state and national education standards, our lessons range from 30 to 60 minutes and provide a unique and thrilling way to dive into STEM topics. Join us on a virtual learning journey and unlock the mysteries of the ocean!

Contact:
Jason Robertshaw
marven@mote.org
(941) 388-2904

Program Details

Format

Introduction and Prior Knowledge: The program opens with an overview of the selected STEM Workforce Development Lab. Participants are invited to share their prior knowledge and career interests, while educators connect the discussion to Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways.
Segment 1 - The Challenge: Participants are introduced to a real-world problem or case study, such as a medical diagnosis in the Vet Clinic or a reef restoration hurdle, to understand the critical role of problem-solving in marine science.
Segment 2 - What Our Scientists Are Doing: Learners virtually explore the STEM Lab where Mote professionals work. Using live camera views, we showcase the specific tools, technology, and data-driven methods used by scientists to address the challenge at hand.
Segment 3 - Training for the Future: We explore how hands-on experience and specialized training build essential workforce skills. This segment highlights how these professional experiences prepare learners for internships and career pathways in aquarium science and conservation.
Live Q&A and Reflection: The session concludes with a live Q&A and guided reflection, allowing participants to engage with experts and enabling educators to reinforce key concepts and classroom learning goals.

Objectives

The participants will:

Identify diverse career paths and professional roles within an AZA-accredited aquarium to understand the multidisciplinary nature of modern marine science and conservation.
Explore the practical application of specialized tools and technologies, such as diagnostic imaging or water chemistry sensors, used by experts to solve real-world challenges in animal care and research.
Analyze the connection between academic STEM concepts and the hands-on technical skills required for workforce success in veterinary medicine, aquaculture, and reef restoration.
Engage in a professional dialogue with STEM experts to evaluate educational pathways, internship opportunities, and the daily responsibilities of various workforce positions.

Standards Alignment

National Standards

For a complete list of Common Core, Next Generation Science Standards, and Florida standards, please visit the For Educators section for your WAVE program:

STEM Workforce Development Labs