Electric Boat, Mystic Aquarium Announce STEM Partnership

Two iconic southeastern Connecticut organizations are partnering on a new initiative to support STEM education and workforce development. 

Mystic Aquarium announced a three-year partnership with General Dynamics Electric Boat. 

The collaboration will fund programs advancing STEM education, workforce development and recruitment, and conservation throughout Connecticut.

Expanding Access

The aquarium calls the partnership “one of the most significant corporate alliances” in its history. 

“After 15 months of thoughtful negotiation and strategic planning, we can’t wait to hit the ground running with this new partnership,” said Mystic Aquarium chief advancement officer Tina Couch. 

The partnership is designed to expand education access through aquarium visits and other diverse learning experiences.

“This partnership reflects the power of aligning industry, education, and community.”

Navy Maritime Industrial Base Program’s Erica Logan

The collaboration is funded by the Navy Maritime Industrial Base Program.

The goal is to not only inform and engage the public but also highlight workforce opportunities and career paths through Electric Boat.

“This partnership reflects the power of aligning industry, education, and community to inspire the next generation of skilled talent,” said Navy Maritime Industrial Base Program workforce director Erica Logan.

Opening Doors

The partnership includes:

• A new Interactive exhibit in 2026 featuring mechanical and electronic elements
• Internship program for three college students and six high school students sponsored by Electric Boat
• Career Expo at Mystic Aquarium during Manufacturing Month in October
• Featured speakers at three upcoming Mystic Aquarium education events including Women in Science, World Oceans Day, and the Career Expo

Mystic Aquarium will also highlight Electric Boat’s youth and adult pathways programs via social media, its website, and on-campus digital media.

“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,” said Couch.

“We’re not just expanding awareness—we’re opening doors to meaningful careers.”

Logan

“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,” added Logan.

Electric Boat currently employs 24,000 people, including more than 15,000 in Connecticut. 

The company’s president, Mark Rayha, has said building the company’s workforce and pipeline training programs are critical to their long-term success.