Collaborative Ocean Research And Leadership (CORAL)

Project Coral is an innovative, eco-STEM initiative that exposes youth to the world of scientific diving, 3-D printing and photogrammetry, coral reef restoration and conservation and leadership development and awareness of ocean-based STEM career pathways. This initiative prepares youth to be eco-champions in their own communities and eco-leaders for the world.

Participant benefits include:

• Eco-Leadership development training

• Increased knowledge of ocean and climate science

• A deeper understanding of various marine science career paths

• Extensive support and networking system comprised of peers, scientists and educators with common STEM interests

• Expanded awareness of resources and opportunities, including future marine and geoscience opportunities and initiatives

• Obtaining valuable information to be used in making college, as well as career decisions

Broader Impact:

1. Full participation of underrepresented minorities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)

2. Increased public scientific literacy and public engagement with science and technology and conservation activities

3. Development of a diverse, globally competitive STEM workforce

4. Increased economic competitiveness of the US

SCUBA/Scientific Diving

Participants are trained in SCUBA and scientific diving techniques to assist them with the exploration and assessment of coral health.

3-D Printing and Photogrammetry

Students learn 3-D design principles and techniques and fabricate coral segments.

Coral restoration

Students utilize the 3D printed coral heads to spark coral re-growth through coral transplantation techniques