Denticles & Tentacles
Youth and Early-Career Ocean
Training Program
In collaboration with Sharks Pacific and local partners, Denticles & Tentacles teaches youth, early career scientists, and emerging leaders about ocean engineering, data collection and analysis, and marine career opportunities in their community through one-week hands-on workshops.​
​Despite the importance of the ocean to coastal communities, many youth in island nations are not exposed to the ecosystems surrounding their home islands, leading to a limited understanding of the environment and limited opportunities in marine careers.
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​Denticles & Tentacles workshops improve participants’ understanding of marine science, engineering, and management; inspire action to solve local problems; provide practical research tools; and increase scientific literacy and capacity. Through hands-on activities and time at sea, this experience improves understanding of deep-water habitats and quantifies marine species in local waters, offering direct participation in research for budding STEM professionals and emerging leaders.
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Ultimately, we aim to spark curiosity about the local natural environment and the STEM opportunities available to participants at home and abroad, while providing them with practical experience and insight into research opportunities in their local communities.
Denticles & Tenticles is co-led by Sharks Pacific, a registered 501(c)3 non-profit.
