Come join us for lunch and a lively workshop on the ocean science, technology, and operations workforce --- with an emphasis on the workforce that supports ocean observing, analysis, and forecast systems.  Workshop participants will address a range of questions, including:

·   What type of workforce is and will be needed to build, operate, and sustain ocean observing systems?

·   What knowledge and skill sets are hardest to find or develop in present and prospective employees?

·   What are the obstacles to attracting and retaining qualified employees?

·   What are the major factors that affect worker supply and demand?

·   What other kinds of employers do ocean observing system employers compete with for workers?

·   Is the higher education system producing the ocean-related graduates needed for the present and future workplace?

·   Would a certification program for oceanographic professionals help employers identify, hire, and evaluate new employees?

If you have an interest in, or information to share, about these issues, please join us for this workshop and the closely related program session, Ocean Science, Technology, and Operations Workforce session (session 093).

Time, Date, and Location: Friday, March 7, 2008 12:15-1:30 in W103

Lunch: See web site listed below.

Participation: We are looking for workshop participants who are involved in the science, technology, and/or operations of ocean observing systems (OOS), or in closely related endeavors.  This includes, for example, the design and operation of ocean observing sensor packages, development and production of operational oceanographic products, applications of ocean observation-based products (e.g., in industry, environmental management, national defense), and education and professional development of OOS workers.  Workshop participants are encouraged to sign up at the website: OOS Workforce Workshop before February 27, 2008.  Space is limited.  You will have the opportunity at the website to indicate whether you would like us to provide lunch for you at a cost of $10.