Valdez, Alaska — Prince William Sound College (PWSC) proudly supported the Cordova middle
school team at the recent Alaska Science Olympiad in Fairbanks, where students earned a gold medal
in mariculture (agricultural sciences). The event provided these enthusiastic students with a unique
glimpse into university life, hands-on STEM education, and the thrill of academic competition.
The Cordova team notably excelled in the mariculture (agricultural sciences) category, earning a gold
medal. This success reflects the curriculum developed by Dr. Amanda Glazier, Assistant Professor of
Biology and Environmental Science at Prince William Sound College (PWSC). Dr. Glazier’s mariculture
program not only enriched the students’ understanding of sustainable marine cultivation but also
positioned them at the forefront of the competition.
The Olympiad also featured a meaningful local connection: Jessica McKay, a Valdez High School
graduate and current graduate student at the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF), hosted an
engaging tour at UAF’s Automated Construction and Advanced Materials Lab (ACAM). Jessica’s
participation exemplifies the positive impact and career opportunities available through regional
educational initiatives.
Looking ahead, Alaska Blue Economy Center (ABEC) Director Tommy Sheridan has plans to expand
participation in the Science Olympiad, with hopes of forming a Valdez team by 2026. This vision
promises to strengthen community ties and increase student engagement in STEM fields across the
region.
Currently, PWSC is hosting the Valdez STEAM Fest (April 3-6, 2025), sponsored primarily by T3
Alaska and the Alaska Workforce Alliance, with additional support from the City of Valdez, Alaska Sea
Grant, and ABEC. Dr. Amanda Glazier has played a significant role in organizing this event, which
provides students with interactive experiences in maritime careers, mariculture, drones, and
makerspace technology.
Dr. Glazier highlighted the relevance of the mariculture curriculum to PWSC’s Marine Natural Resource
Technician (MNRT) program, underscoring the institution’s commitment to integrating real-world skills
into educational offerings. “Mariculture is an exciting and growing field,” said Dr. Glazier; “By introducing these concepts early, we’re preparing students for promising careers and addressing critical
environmental and economic opportunities in Alaska.”
The Cordova team’s outstanding achievements showcase academic excellence, community
collaboration, and the future potential of STEM and mariculture education at PWSC and beyond.