It was an energizing two days at the Cape Cod Blue Economy Foundation’s annual Big Blue Conference, where educators, students, policymakers, and industry leaders gathered to shape the future of Cape Cod’s Blue Economy.
Highlights include remarks from Katy Acheson, Executive Director of the Blue Economy Foundation, Ashley Stolba, Interim Economic Development Secretary of Massachusetts, and keynote speaker Brian Braginton-Smith. Some insightful panels included a conversation about coastal resilience and climate impacts on working waterfronts with Andrew Gottlieb, Greg Berman, Anne-Marie Runfola, and a presentation from Falmouth Public Schools showcasing how local education is preparing the next generation for ocean and coastal-focused careers.
A sincere thank you to Cape Cod Regional Technical High School for hosting this event.
- Day One focused on education and workforce development, spotlighting how Cape schools are leading the way with experiential, career-connected learning.
- Day Two brought those pathways to life with towns, nonprofits, and organizations demonstrating how their work supports not just the Blue Economy, but the broader economic, coastal, and cultural resilience of the region.
The conference closed with a recorded message from NASA astronaut and former WHOI engineer Loral O’Hara, reinforcing the deep connection between Cape Cod’s future and its ocean heritage. The Expo also offered valuable insights into the many sectors driving Blue Economy innovation today.
The photos captured by our Climate Associate Rachel Moberg offer just a glimpse of the many thoughtful speakers and conversations throughout the event.