MYSTIC, CT (May 27, 2025) – Mystic Aquarium today announced a three-year partnership with Electric Boat, a business unit of General Dynamics. This venture, one of the most significant corporate alliances in Mystic Aquarium’s history and a pioneering effort for both organizations, will fund critical initiatives advancing STEM education, workforce development and recruitment, and conservation throughout Connecticut.

The partnership unites two of Connecticut’s most respected organizations in a powerful shared mission to protect our ocean planet. Centered around education and community engagement, it will inform and engage the public on Electric Boat’s dynamic workforce opportunities and valuable career paths. Funded by the Navy Maritime Industrial Base Program, the collaboration will expand educational access through aquarium visits and foster diverse learning experiences.

"After 15 months of thoughtful negotiation and strategic planning, we can’t wait to hit the ground running with this new partnership,” said Tina Couch, Chief Advancement Officer at Mystic Aquarium. “This collaboration with Electric Boat represents a pivotal moment, not just for our mission, but for the future of the STEM workforce and global conservation efforts.”

“This partnership reflects the power of aligning industry, education, and community to inspire the next generation of skilled talent,” said Erica Logan, Workforce Director for the Navy’s Maritime Industrial Base Program. “By introducing young minds to marine science and the technologies behind submarine manufacturing, we’re not just expanding awareness—we’re opening doors to meaningful careers that strengthen our national security.”

Key initiatives to be rolled out through the partnership include:
· A bold new interactive exhibit in 2026, featuring a variety of mechanical and electronic interactives on the main gallery floor.
· Electric Boat will sponsor three college and six high school interns for a program titled Electric Boat Fellows and Scholars. Participants will gain hands-on professional experience within the
Aquarium's Education and Conservation Department and contribute to the development of summer camps, outreach programs, and public events, as well as design and present a tabletop display for the public highlighting submarine manufacturing and other related topics.
· During Manufacturing Month in October, the Aquarium will host a Career Expo focusing on the manufacturing of submarines in Connecticut and highlighting the synergies between shipbuilding and the Aquarium in the areas of manufacturing.
· Speakers will be featured at three upcoming Mystic Aquarium education events including Women in Science, World Oceans Day, and the Career Expo.
· Mystic Aquarium will distribute information about Electric Boat’s youth and adult pathways programs via social media, its website and on campus digital media.

Community partners and sponsors are essential to Mystic Aquarium’s continued growth and sustainability. Their contributions help fund critical conservation initiatives, educational programs, and scientific research. Collaborations with local organizations like Electric Boat allow the Aquarium to expand its reach, deepen community engagement and further promote environmental responsibility. For information about partnerships, please email development@mysticaquarium.org.