Mote SEA Launches STEM Workforce Labs to Train the Next Generation of Marine Scientists

Mote SEA Opens Workforce Development Labs to Build Career Paths in Marine Science

The newly opened Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA) is doing more than welcoming visitors — it has launched a suite of STEM Workforce Development Labs designed to prepare students and early-career professionals for a wide range of marine science careers.

Institutional Capacity and Mission. As Mote expands its research and education footprint, the organization now employs 306 professionals, including 45 Ph.D.-level researchers, supports more than 10,000 members, and runs 38 active research programs. The Science Education Aquarium reinforces Mote’s mission to develop skilled, career-ready talent while advancing ocean conservation.

“Our Workforce Development Labs help students and emerging professionals discover the skills and qualities most valued in marine science — curiosity, analytical thinking, adaptability, teamwork and a passion for discovery,”

— Kevin Cooper, Vice President for Communications and Strategic Initiatives, Mote

Hands-On Training and Mentorship. The Workforce Development Labs bridge classroom learning and employment through immersive internships, authentic research projects and direct mentorship. High school, undergraduate and graduate students work side-by-side with Mote scientists and staff, gaining practical skills, bespoke career advice and exposure to both technical and support roles essential to modern marine institutions.

Facility Features

• Campus Size: The Mote SEA campus covers 146,000 square feet dedicated to marine science, education and immersive public experiences.
• Teaching Labs: Three state-of-the-art STEM Teaching Labs — Biomedical, Microbiology & Immunology; Marine & Coastal Ecology; and Ocean Engineering, Technology, Robotics & Sensory Development — provide free, hands-on learning for more than 70,000 K–12 students in Sarasota and Manatee counties.
• Workforce Training Labs: Four specialized Workforce Training Labs focus on Aquaculture, Conservation, Coral Restoration, and a Veterinary Clinic & Diagnostic Center.
• Exhibits & Life Support: Mote SEA will feature over 1 million gallons of living ocean exhibits supported by advanced 24/7 life-support systems for continuous water-quality monitoring, filtration and chemical balancing. The facility also produces its own salt water on site.
• Coral Restoration: Mote operates pioneering land-based coral nurseries in the Florida Keys where damaged corals are rehabilitated and grown before being returned to reefs.

Community Impact. In 2024, 50,934 students attended City Island education programs; Mote SEA is expected to substantially increase that reach by expanding free, experiential STEM opportunities and strengthening partnerships with local schools.

By combining cutting-edge research, extensive public exhibits and targeted workforce training, Mote SEA aims to create clear career pathways that sustain both the institution and the health of coastal ecosystems. Learn more at mote.org.