Mystic Aquarium Continues Commitment to STEM Learning with Opening of Electric Boat Exhibit

Mystic Aquarium today opened Pathways to the Deep, a new attraction where visitors explore a variety of mechanical and electronic interactives while learning about the future of the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) workforce and global conservation efforts. The exhibit is part of Mystic Aquarium’s partnership with General Dynamics Electric Boat and is powered by the Submarine Industrial Base (SIB) Program Office.

The exhibit, through collaboration between the two Connecticut-based partners, includes a variety of interactives:

• Oceans of Opportunities - Meet the people who build submarines! Featuring real Electric Boat employees, this interactive exhibit invites visitors to discover the many career paths behind submarine design, construction, and operations.
• Seeing with Sound - Inspired by nature and technology, this immersive simulation lets visitors explore the ocean using sound, comparing how a beluga whale uses echolocation with how a submarine relies on sonar.
• Submarine Deep Dive - Be a submarine pilot! Visitors will test their piloting skills as they navigate from the Submarine Base along the Thames River, then dive beneath the surface to enter Long Island Sound while learning fascinating facts about submarines and the ocean animals that share the deep sea environments.
• Hiding in Plain Sight - Featuring cuttlefish, this new exhibit explores the science of camouflage and how biomimicry inspires submarine design and technology.

“Through our partnership with General Dynamics Electric Boat, we are continuing to provide educational opportunities at Mystic Aquarium with the opening of this new exhibit,” said MaryEllen Mateleska, VP of Education and Conservation at Mystic Aquarium. “Visitors will be immersed in global conservation efforts and marine science, coming away inspired to learn more about STEM opportunities and vital marine ecosystems that benefit both our local Connecticut and global communities.”

“We’re excited to introduce young minds to marine science and technologies in submarine manufacturing, empowering the next generation of skilled talent,” said Courtney Murphy, Director of Talent Management at General Dynamics Electric Boat. “This new exhibit offers a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about our region’s shipbuilding heritage. Electric Boat and Mystic Aquarium collaborated on these unique interactive exhibits which explore the science behind submarines and career opportunities along Connecticut’s coastline.”

The partnership between the two Connecticut organizations is centered on a shared mission to protect our ocean planet through education and community engagement. In addition to the new exhibit, the collaboration will also include the following efforts supported through the Navy’s Maritime Industrial Base Program:

• Electric Boat Fellows and Scholars: Electric Boat sponsors three college and six high school interns who gain hands-on professional experience within the Aquarium’s Education and Conservation Department. The participants also contribute to the development of summer camps, outreach programs, and public events. 
• Career Expo: During Manufacturing Month each October, the Aquarium hosts a career expo focused on the manufacturing of submarines in Connecticut and highlighting the synergies between shipbuilding and the Aquarium in the areas of manufacturing.
• Educational Event Speakers: Electric Boat speakers are featured at Mystic Aquarium education events including Women in Science, World Oceans Day, and the Career Expo.

Plan your next visit to see Pathways to the Deep at Mystic Aquarium at mysticaquarium.org!

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 e-mail development@mysticaquarium.org.

ABOUT MYSTIC AQUARIUM

Mystic Aquarium, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, is one of the world's leading aquariums, offering exemplary care to a variety of species while also serving as the Northeast's premier marine animal rescue and rehabilitation center. Robust conservation and education programming and unparalleled visitor experiences strengthen personal connections to the animals and their environments. Mystic Aquarium's mission is to protect aquatic life and empower communities to save our oceans, and introduces approximately 800,000 visitors annually to thousands of animals through structured interpretation, especially curated exhibits, and hands-on interactions. As a leading research organization, Mystic Aquarium employs a full staff of scientists engaged in projects focused on our ocean planet's conservation and sustainability.

ABOUT GENERAL DYNAMICS ELECTRIC BOAT

General Dynamics Electric Boat designs, builds, repairs and modernizes nuclear submarines for the U.S. Navy. Headquartered in Groton, Connecticut, it employs more than 25,000 people. More information about General Dynamics Electric Boat is available at www.gdeb.com.