Mid‐ and High‐Engagement Programs to Develop Future Fisheries Management Professionals’ Skills

Aquatic science and fisheries degree granting institutions prepare graduates for science, policy, management, and Extension positions across the nation. Increasingly, new graduates are asked to translate their research for diverse audiences but often have received little preparation about outreach, engagement, or science communications during their graduate education. We describe two professional development programs designed to prepare future professionals to integrate technical and scientific expertise with the professional skills necessary for effective public engagement. Both programs addressed competencies in community partnerships, engagement with diverse stakeholders, facilitative leadership, collaboration techniques, communication skills, and career pathway exploration. Evaluation revealed an increase in self-reported awareness and competencies, career interests in outreach, Extension, engagement, and communications alongside research interests, and intention to list the programs on their resume/curriculum vitae. Enhancing skills in public engagement benefits society and scientists by preparing them for the range of roles and people they will interact with throughout their career.