Join the
Blue Wave
Volunteer program
Are you ready to dive into the future with us? Join our wave of change and be a part of the oceanic transformation that will sustain generations to come. Together, we can turn the tide towards a more sustainable, just, and equitable world.
More than:
Field Trips
Experiential Site Visits deepen students enrichment and understanding of AltaSea’s Project Blue initiatives by engaging learners in science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM) activities to facilitate educational programs and assist with hands-on workshops to inspire the next generation of ocean leaders.
Open Houses
Our Open Houses serve as a platform for our partners to share valuable resources with our community through informative presentations, workshops, and exhibits that aim to engage and inspire students and community members of all ages. An opportunity to foster a stronger community, exchange ideas, and work towards a blue economy that leads economic growth while combating climate change and preserving the wellbeing of our oceans.
Engagement is a key component to the mission and vision of AltaSea to demystify the Blue Economy by inspiring students and engaging the community on all levels. Our volunteers support our community outreach efforts within STEM education, ocean research and conservation, and workforce development efforts.
What's Coming Up
Volunteer Spotlight
Richard Ellingson
Richard M. Ellingson, was born in Boston, Massachusetts on July 10, 1944. His father was Navy pilot in WWII and his mother was an RN. He grew up on Naval Air Stations on both coasts in Panama and Japan. He graduated from South Torrance High School in 1962 and from UC Santa Barbara in 1966 with a BA in History. He served in the US Army from 1966-69. Richard retired in 2011 as a Lotus Notes Administrator with Computer Sciences Corp., working on programs for Raytheon. He is a dedicated father and volunteer who enjoys playing pickleball on his spare time. At AltaSea, Richard supports our campus and shares his knowledge with our youth on the history of the Port of Los Angeles and naval ships.
Jack Tamashiro
Jack is a Freshman at El Camino College, currently transferring to USC as an undergraduate in Environmental Studies. As a fifth-generation descendant of Japanese immigrants from Taiji, he has always maintained a strong connection to the ocean through their cultural heritage. His passion for fish developed at a young age, leading him to delve into the study of ichthyology and contemplate how to transform it into a viable career. In fifth grade, he was introduced to the concept of aquaculture and its potential to create a more sustainable planet when executed correctly. Since then, he has been captivated by the growth of the aquaculture industry and firmly believe they can contribute to its ongoing development. Post-high school, he volunteers at AltaSea, where he connects with numerous environmental professionals in various fields. Through this experience, he secured an internship at Seatopia, a private business that responsibly sources and distributes farmed seafood globally to American consumers. Additionally, he has volunteered with USC Sea Grant and actively participates in the Los Angeles chapter of the MPA Collaborative Network.
Sign Up Below
Joining our volunteer community means connecting with like-minded individuals who are passionate about sustainability and making a positive impact on the world.
Download Options
Special Events Volunteer
Special Events Volunteers provide support during various events hosted by AltaSea, including fundraisers, workshops, and community gatherings. Click here to download the full description.
STEM Education Volunteer
STEM Education Volunteers play a crucial role in supporting AltaSea’s Project Blue initiative by engaging learners in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) activities. Click here to download the full description.
AltaSea Docent and Guide
Docent and Guide Volunteers serve as ambassadors for AltaSea, providing informative and engaging tours of our facilities and exhibits. Click here to download the full description.
Community Engagement Volunteer
Community Outreach Volunteers play a vital role in promoting AltaSea’s mission and programs within the local community. Click here to download the full description.
Ocean Youth Advocate
Ocean Youth Advocate Volunteers play a key role in raising awareness about ocean conservation issues and advocating for sustainable practices with youth in their communities. Click here to download the full description.