Current & Former Students

Galveston Campus Hosts Third Annual Blue Economy Leadership Institute

The Blue Economy Leadership Institute gives students an opportunity to solve real-world issues in a controlled environment.

On February 7 and 8, Texas A&M University at Galveston Department of Counseling, Career & Ability Services hosted the Blue Economy Leadership Institute. The two-day team-based event let juniors, seniors and graduate students tackle real-life issues for the blue economy, with the winning team taking home a $2,500 prize. 

After receiving their group assignments on Friday night, student participants were introduced to the weekend’s challenge. The scenario involved a collision with an endangered whale, a crew member in distress, a ransomware attack and damage to ship systems. On Saturday, about halfway through the challenge, teams faced a plot twist: a protest preventing employees from making it to work and government sanctions placed in the middle of the voyage preventing the ship from proceeding to their original terminal. Each team had just a few hours to address these problems, which intersect many of the degree programs within the College of Marine Sciences and Maritime Studies. 

“The Blue Economy Leadership Institute has allowed me to work with people from all different disciplines and backgrounds on maritime issues,” said Alli DeYoung ’25, a three-time participant of the Blue Economy Leadership Institute and one of this year’s first place team members. “This experience will help me as I continue into my career and work with others to keep the commerce on the seas moving.”

Former students and industry leaders judged the teams’ final presentations, awarding first and second place to the two most creative and economically feasible solutions. Student participants had the opportunity to listen to and network with the industry guests, discussing leadership, career development and more. 

This was the third annual Blue Economy Leadership Institute, and Dr. Ken Bailey, Director of Department of Counseling, Career & Ability Services at the Galveston Campus, said that while students often come in unsure, they leave excited about their experience. 

“The Blue Economy Leadership Institute is an interactive way for students to practice a collaborative response to real-world problems,” said Bailey. “I am so proud of each of the students that participated and thankful to our sponsors that made this event possible.” 

Thank you to our industry partners: 

Shell

Chevron

Bertling Logistics

Gulf Copper

Sabine Surveyors

Marathon

NAMEPA

Stolt Tankers