Aquaculture Internships for Massachusetts (AIM)

Aquaculture – growing aquatic life – is the world’s fastest growing food sector. Massachusetts is no exception, with oyster aquaculture representing the third most valuable marine food product, and the state’s fifth most valuable agricultural product. Nearly 400 shellfish farms in Massachusetts, as well as a handful of seaweed and finfish operations have a growing need for a strong workforce. Beyond the farm, many other operations are essential for the success of the industry – from hatcheries, to seafood processing and wholesaler shipping, to restaurant and market relations. In addition, aquaculture plays an important role in supporting recreational shellfishing, coastal restoration, and value-added ingredients to a myriad of products, from fertilizer to farm feed. All these operations are hungry to find hardworking personnel who will shepherd this industry to reach its ever-increasing potential to support sustainable jobs and economic growth for the communities of the Commonwealth. But most people have not had an opportunity to explore the sector in any way because there is no clear pathway to try it out. 

We aim to connect great workers with the rewarding field of aquaculture! 

The Aquaculture Internships for Massachusetts (AIM) program is seeking folks who may or may not have any prior experience with aquaculture, or even with working near the water. In 2024, we trained and placed three individuals into 6-month paid internships. We aim to double that success for 2025!

AIM is a collaborative partnership with MIT  Sea Grant, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Sea Grant, and Cape Cod Cooperative Extension.