Guy Harvey Foundation & Harte Research Institute at Texas A&M – Corpus Christi Launch Oyster Farming Program

The Guy Harvey Foundation (GHF), in collaboration with the Oyster Resource & Recovery Center (ORRC) at Harte Research Institute (HRI) announces the launch of an Oyster Farming educational program - the first installment in GHF’s new Marine Careers Series, scheduled for full release in early 2027.

Designed to inspire and inform the next generation of ocean professionals, the Oyster Farming program introduces students and early-career learners to workforce opportunities within the growing ocean economy. Through engaging digital content and guided career exploration tools, the program highlights oyster aquaculture as a viable and impactful career path, particularly in Texas.

“This initiative represents an important step in connecting students to meaningful, hands-on careers in marine industries,” said Ellis Chapman, Program Director of ORRC. “As we continue expanding oyster farming in Texas, it’s critical that we build awareness of the workforce opportunities that support this sector. Programs like the Marine Careers Series produced by the GHF help ensure that we are cultivating not only oysters, but also the next generation of skilled professionals needed to sustain this industry.”

Payton Sienkiewicz, Chief Operating Officer at Key Allegro Oyster Company (KAOC), said they were thrilled to be part of the Guy Harvey Foundation’s Marine Careers Series. When HRI and ORRC brought the opportunity to film at KAOC, they knew they wanted to be involved.

“KAOC was honored to be the first business featured, showcasing career opportunities in oyster farming. We hope this series helps introduce young people to careers in aquaculture and inspires the next generation to realize this is something they really can do ’when they grow up’” Payton added.

The program was developed as a collaborative effort between GHF, HRI, and ORRC, bringing together expertise in marine science, education, and workforce development. A key feature of the Marine Careers Series is its virtual advisor tool, which helps users identify education and training pathways aligned with their interests. The ORRC is highlighted as a featured destination within the Oyster Farming program, showcasing real-world applications of oyster aquaculture and restoration.

The Oyster Resource and Recovery Center (ORRC), based at Harte Research Institute at Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi, plays a leading role in supporting sustainable oyster farming in Texas. Through workforce development and industry partnerships, ORRC is advancing both environmental and economic resilience along the Texas coast.

“You can claim that there is an awareness gap when talking about careers in the ocean economy and we plan to close part of that gap with this series,” said Mark Lambertson, Managing Director of Education at Guy Harvey Foundation. “We like to think of ourselves as a welcoming front door to a career workforce that needs people. We won’t be able to accomplish this alone, but we believe partnering with ORRC to produce this Oyster Farming program is a good start.”

The Marine Careers Series is part of the Guy Harvey Foundation’s broader mission to promote ocean conservation and support marine science education. By combining storytelling, career guidance, and scientific insight, the series aims to inspire students from diverse backgrounds to explore careers that protect and sustain ocean resources. For additional information on the GHF’s educational programs, visit www.guyharveyfoundation.org/education.

The Oyster Farming program is now available online at www.txoystertraining.org offering free access to educators, students, and anyone interested in pursuing a career in marine industries.