Education Workforce Development

March 13, 2026March 13, 2026

Guam EPSCoR Students celebrate science with community at UOG Charter Day

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Science was front and center during the University of Guam’s Charter Day festivities as students from the Guam NSF EPSCoR program helped spark curiosity among hundreds of visiting students from across the island.

Throughout the day, Guam EPSCoR student researchers hosted interactive outreach booths at the UOG Marine Laboratory, welcoming groups of elementary, middle, and high school students and the greater community, eager to learn more about the island’s unique marine and environmental ecosystems.

The outreach activities were designed to make science accessible and engaging. Visiting students explored hands-on demonstrations that introduced them to topics such as marine life, environmental monitoring, and the role of science in protecting Guam’s natural resources. EPSCoR students guided participants through experiments, answered questions, and shared their experiences pursuing careers in science and research.

The event created a rare opportunity for younger students to interact directly with college-level researchers working on issues relevant to Guam and the broader Pacific region.

For the EPSCoR student Diana Noto, the outreach was just as meaningful. Noto was excited to share her work and encourage the next generation of scientists.

“Seeing all the students make a connection with the marine life was a real win for me,” said Noto. “There were students who were really reluctant in the touch tank, and it was very rewarding to see the students interacting with the animals after they learned more about them.”

By the end of the day, the Marine Lab had welcomed hundreds of students from schools across Guam, many leaving with a deeper appreciation for the island’s marine environments—and a new curiosity about science.

The Guam EPSCoR program supports research and workforce development in STEM fields across the island, helping build local capacity in areas such as environmental science, data science, and sustainable resource management.

Through events like Charter Day, the program not only advances research but also connects young learners with the scientists and discoveries shaping Guam’s future.

March 12, 2026March 13, 2026

UOG EPSCoR and SEAS INCLUDES welcome undergraduate fellows for 2026

Students and faculty research mentors all together following the 2026 Guam NSF EPSCoR E-CORE/GECCO & SEAS INCLUDES Islands Alliance Student Research Experience orientation.

A total of 20 students across both the University of Guam and Guam Community College will spend their year as undergraduate student research fellows for the Guam National Science Foundation Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (Guam NSF EPSCoR) E-CORE (Optimizing Research Infrastructure on Guam)/ GECCO (Guam Ecosystems Collaboratorium for Corals and Oceans) and INCLUDES SEAS Islands Alliance programs.

The Student Research Experience (SRE) provides students with interest in STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics) the opportunity to work alongside a faculty research mentor and receive guidance for their own research projects, with the support of a monthly stipend. This program is designed to build sustainable research infrastructure cores within NSF EPSCoR-eligible jurisdictions to improve the overall research ecosystem, foster innovation, and promote economic growth.

This year’s undergraduate student researchers include:

E-CORE:

Leeana Jackson (GCC)
Ashley Gim (GCC)
Mykaila Charfauros (UOG)
Reggie Waiti (UOG)
Azer Bilimon (UOG)
Paris Borja (UOG)
Erica Garcia II (UOG)
Jarome Scott (UOG)
Juliana Valencia (UOG)

GECCO:

Kåna Sgambelluri (UOG)
Kiaza Jerao (UOG)
Ariel Santiago (UOG)
Sean Fabian (UOG)
Cameron San Agustin (UOG)
Jesse Carpo (UOG)
Nicolas Ubaldo (UOG)

INCLUDES:

Diego Quiogue (UOG)
Shannah Solamillos (UOG)
Allysa Calilung (UOG)
Segundo Garrido (UOG)

Throughout the program, student researchers will meet with faculty mentors on a recurring basis to engage in various research projects. This includes lab and field work ranging from plant pathology, marine biology, entomology, civil engineering, and more. This year’s SRE cohort will be working under the following faculty mentors:

Bastian Bentlage, Ph.D. – Bioinformatics (GECCO)
Else Demeulenaere, Ph.D. – Biology & Social and Behavioral Sciences (E-CORE)
Nestor Guades, Ph.D. – Civil Engineering (E-CORE, INCLUDES)
Alfred Daniel Johnson, Ph.D. – Entomology (E-CORE, INCLUDES)
Rob Lasley, Ph.D. – Crustacea, (GECCO, INCLUDES)
Christopher Lobban, Ph.D. – Biology (E-CORE, INCLUDES)
Michalis Mihalitsis, Ph.D. – Vertebrate Morphology (GECCO)
Bindu Poudel-Ward, Ph.D. – Plant Pathology (E-CORE)
Brett Taylor, Ph.D. – Marine Biology (GECCO)
Wei Xiao, Ph.D. – Biology (GECCO)
Rui Zeng, Ph.D. – Civil Engineering (E-CORE)

Throughout the year, the cohort will attend monthly Near Peer sessions. These sessions, overseen by Cheryl Sangueza, Ph.D., bring student researchers together to reflect on the program as it happens in real time. “We talk about your research experiences and how they impact your sense of belonging in science, your identity, and how that breathes into science communication, and just your place in space in science,” Sangueza explains. “We bridge what you’re doing with the research to who you are as scientists,” she says.

This year’s SRE iteration also introduces the first cohort for Guam NSF EPSCoR E-CORE, a project that holds a strong focus on creating self-sustaining research ecosystems. E-CORE RII ORIG (Optimizing Research Infrastructure on Guam) aims to build upon the foundation developed by the previous research project GECCO. The research project is a product of collaboration by UOG and GCC, working in synergy with the Guam Science & Technology Steering Committee (STSC) to expand Guam’s research ecosystem, diversify its STEM workforce, and advance science and technology initiatives.

Alongside working with faculty mentors on various research projects, student researchers will also be trained to present their work at STEM conferences. These primarily include the annual UOG Conference on Island Sustainability happening on Guam at the end of April, as well as the annual SACNAS (Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science) NDiSTEM Conference happening in Long Beach, California at the end of October. Student researchers may also be chosen to present at other STEM conferences on Guam or abroad depending on their respective grant support. They will be trained to present their work in various ways, including poster presentations and/or panel participation, and will get the chance to network with like-minded STEM enthusiasts and professionals from all over the world.

February 25, 2026February 26, 2026

UOG’s G3 GROW Corps named among the nation’s top public service innovations

The Guam Green Growth (G3) GROW Corps receives national recognition in the 50 States, 50 Breakthroughs showcase, created by Apolitical, the National Academy of Public Administration, and Humans of Public Service and reviewed by a panel of public service leaders. The showcase honors the public servants behind innovative ideas, recognizing G3 GROW’s work in watershed restoration, climate resilience, and sustainability workforce development in Guam.

The Guam Green Growth (G3) Guam Restoration of Watersheds (GROW) Corps, facilitated by the University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, has been named to 50 States, 50 Breakthroughs, a national showcase highlighting transformative public service initiatives across the United States and its territories.

The showcase features one project from every U.S. state, along with Washington, D.C., Guam, and Puerto Rico, and recognizes initiatives advancing public impact in areas such as artificial intelligence and emerging technology, climate and disaster response, digital transformation, workforce development, policymaking, transportation and infrastructure, housing and health, and citizen engagement.

The G3 GROW Corps was selected in the climate, energy, and disaster response category for its work restoring Guam’s watersheds, strengthening environmental resilience, and developing a sustainability-focused workforce.

UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez, DBA, who also serves as the co-chair for the G3 initiative, underscored the institutional significance of the inclusion in the list. “Being featured in this national showcase underscores the University’s leadership in advancing community-driven solutions. It signals that the work happening with UOG and Guam Green Growth is contributing to conversations and progress well beyond our shores.”

Austin Shelton, Ph.D., the director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant (UOG CIS & Sea Grant), emphasized the broader meaning of the recognition.

“Through Guam Green Growth, we are integrating workforce development, environmental restoration, and community partnership into a unified strategy for long-term resilience. We are grateful for this recognition as a Top 50 Breakthrough, and we’re pleased to continue sharing the green growth model with our island neighbors, as well as other U.S. states and territories,” said Shelton.

The initiative was created by Apolitical, the National Academy of Public Administration (NAPA), and Humans of Public Service. Projects were reviewed by a panel of expert practitioners and leaders from across the public service ecosystem, spanning government, academia, technology, and civic innovation. Drawing extensive experience in public sector leadership, scalable impact, and emerging technologies, reviewers identified initiatives demonstrating measurable results, originality, and strong potential for adaptation by governments nationwide. Collectively, the selected projects offer an encouraging vision for the future of public service in the United States.

“At a time when trust in government matters deeply, 50 States, 50 Breakthroughs show what effective, innovative public service looks like in action,” said James-Christian Blockwood, President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Academy of Public Administration. “These solutions improve outcomes in our state and local communities and offer powerful examples that strengthen public service nationwide.”

According to Brian Whittaker, Executive Director of Humans of Public Service, the stories of the honorees highlight that public servants across the country are deeply committed to their communities and are finding new, thoughtful ways to serve them better.

The G3 GROW Corps marked the successful completion of the first cohort earlier this year and helped to reach a landmark of over 7000 trees planted in watershed restoration efforts alongside UOG CIS & Sea Grant GROW team members.

The GROW initiative aims to reforest Ugum watershed badlands to prevent more sediment runoff into the rivers that provide water for the southern villages of Guam and have led to smothering of coral in close by coastal zones.

February 17, 2026March 6, 2026

UOG’s Guam NSF EPSCoR E-CORE and E-RISE programs launch Graduate Research Assistant recruitment

Graduate research assistants are currently being recruited by the Guam NSF EPSCoR’s E-CORE and E-RISE programs. Both programs are open to graduate students and include stipends amongst other benefits. GRAs get hands-on research experience and work hand in hand with faculty mentors.

The Guam National Science Foundation Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (Guam NSF EPSCoR) at the University of Guam (UOG) has announced a new recruitment cycle for Graduate Research Assistants (GRAs) under its E-CORE and E-RISE initiatives, offering tuition support, stipends, and professional development opportunities for eligible graduate students.

Both programs are seeking full-time graduate students in STEM fields to support research efforts that advance scientific infrastructure and environmental understanding on Guam.

E-RISE: Advancing Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research

The E-RISE (Enhancing Research Infrastructure and Scientific Education) program is recruiting GRAs for interdisciplinary research focused on Guam’s coral reef ecosystems. The initiative targets graduate-level students interested in tropical marine biodiversity.

Research areas include:

Benthic marine biodiversity assessments using specimen collections
Underwater surveys employing photogrammetry and molecular genetics
Experimental ecophysiology and growth studies of habitat-defining species such as corals and algae

The E-RISE program provides stipend and tuition support to selected students.

“The E-RISE program is excited to welcome new applicants for this GRA cycle,” said E-RISE principal investigator Bastian Bentlage, Ph.D. “This is a great opportunity for students to dive deeper into Guam’s marine biodiversity and become part of a dynamic research team contributing to understanding and responsible stewardship of our natural resources. We look forward to train and mentor our students here in Guam in those areas.”

According to E-CORE co-principal investigator Cheryl Sangueza, Ph.D., E-RISE scholars are also provided comprehensive mentoring during the program.

Students with questions about E-RISE may contact program assistant Kikue Roberto at robertokm@triton.uog.edu.

E-CORE: Supporting STEM Graduate Scholars

The E-CORE (Optimizing Research Infrastructure on Guam) program is also recruiting Graduate Research Assistants. The scholarship is designed for full-time graduate students in STEM disciplines who do not currently receive grant-funded support.

In addition to possible tuition and stipend assistance, E-CORE scholars will participate in graduate mentoring seminars aimed at strengthening professional development skills.

Terry Donaldson, Ph.D., is the principal investigator for the E-CORE grant and has seen the success of students through his work as the PI on one of the largest research grants in UOG history, Guam NSF EPSCoR’s GECCO, which brought over 22 million dollars to the university.

“This GRA program will provide opportunities to students that may not have had funding support before,” said Donaldson. “This program goes far beyond the funding though, with the opportunity for mentorship and professional development really helping to elevate our growing talent here on Guam.”

For additional information about E-CORE, students may contact program assistant Franki Guerrero at guerrerof@triton.uog.edu.

Application Information

The initiatives are part of Guam NSF EPSCoR’s broader mission to advance geographic diversity in STEM and strengthen research capacity at UOG and its partner institutions, including Guam Community College.

Eligible graduate students seeking financial support and research experience are encouraged to apply by visiting guamepscor.uog.edu.

EPSCoR_ECORE_20260205_GRA26FRecruitmentFlyer_V5

February 5, 2026February 17, 2026

UOG students recognized by the Guam Legislature for excellence at SACNAS Conference

University of Guam students who attended the 2025 Society for the Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science National Diversity in STEM Conference are recognized during a certificate presentation in January at the UOG College of Natural and Applied Sciences conference room. Pictured with the students are UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Director Austin Shelton, Ph.D.; College of Natural and Applied Sciences Dean and Director Rachael Leon Guerrero, Ph.D.; and Cheryl Sangueza, Ph.D., co-principal investigator of the NSF INCLUDES SEAS and NSF Navigating Home grants and head of student experience for Guam NSF EPSCoR. Sen. Vincent A.V. Borja, chair of the Legislature’s Committee on Education, presented the certificates.

Azer Bilimon, a student in the UOG School of Engineering who received the Native American/Indigenous Student Research Abstract Award at the 2025 SACNAS Conference, receives a certificate from Sen. Vincent A.V. Borja, chair of the Legislature’s Committee on Education.

Archancel Abellera, who received an Outstanding Research Presentation award at the 2025 SACNAS Conference, receives a certificate from Sen. Vincent A.V. Borja, chair of the Legislature’s Committee on Education.

The 17 University of Guam students who attended the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) National Diversity in STEM (NDiSTEM) Conference received formal recognition from the Guam Legislature for representing the island at the national event. The students participated in the conference as members of the Guam NSF EPSCoR, SEAS Islands Alliance and Navigating Home programs at UOG.

Sen. Vincent A.V. Borja, who chairs the Legislature’s Committee on Education, presented certificates to the students during a ceremony held at the UOG College of Natural and Applied Sciences conference room.

Among those recognized were three UOG students who earned recognition for their research presentations. Azer Bilimon, a student in the UOG School of Engineering, received the Native American/Indigenous Student Research Abstract Award, while Archancel Abellera and Cameron San Agustin received Outstanding Research Presentation awards.

Borja commended the students for their achievements and for representing Guam on a national stage. “We want to ensure that we, as elected officials and public leaders, recognize the work that our students do here at the University of Guam,” Borja said. “For me, this is a big deal.”

Borja noted that participation in national conferences sparks interest in Guam, particularly when students return home after receiving awards and share their experiences with the university and the community.

For Abellera, receiving an award was unexpected but affirming. “I was really surprised to be recognized,” she said.

Her award-winning presentation, “Preserving Endangered Orchids in the Marianas: Propagation Techniques for Species Recovery,” focused on conserving Dendrobium guamense, an endangered orchid found only in the Marianas.

“It was a great experience. I feel like I’ve stepped into a world where I have more trust in my skills,” she said.

Bilimon’s presentation, “Evaluating the Mechanical and Sustainable Benefits of Fibrous Reinforcement in Seawater and Freshwater Mortar Mixtures,” explored the use of coconut fibers in construction. The project was inspired by the resource challenges faced by island communities such as Guam and the Marshall Islands.

Meanwhile, San Agustin’s presentation, “Exploring Propagation Techniques for Conservation of Myrtella bennigseniana, a Native Savanna Shrub,” examined methods to improve the propagation of Myrtella bennigseniana, a native shrub that helps restore Guam’s savanna ecosystems threatened by land development and habitat loss.

Cheryl Sangueza, Ph.D., co-principal investigator of the NSF INCLUDES SEAS and NSF Navigating Home grants and head of student experience for Guam NSF EPSCoR, said UOG has participated in SACNAS conferences since 2018.

For some of the students, this was their first time traveling off island, according to Sangueza, who added that SACNAS exposes them to a broader community of STEM professionals while also bringing recognition to Guam.

She noted that the conference draws approximately 7,000 participants and features around a hundred research presentations. “The most important thing is going out and representing who we are as students from Guam,” Sangueza said. She added that mentors and conference attendees frequently seek out the UOG booth to commend the professionalism and quality of the students’ presentations.

UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Director Austin Shelton, Ph.D., highlighted the broader impact of research opportunities on student success.

“We’ve created close to 300—or even more than 300—research opportunities for students that didn’t exist before,” Shelton said. “That allows us to do things like take them to national conferences.”

Shelton emphasized that geographic distance often limits access to national opportunities for students in Guam. “At these conferences, students are gaining scholarships, fellowships, job opportunities and acceptance into graduate programs,” he said.

UOG sent a 28-member delegation to the 2025 SACNAS Conference, including students, mentors, and science communicators. The nation’s largest multicultural and multidisciplinary STEM event took place in Columbus, Ohio, drawing participants from across the United States and its territories.

Support for select students to attend the SACNAS Conference was also made possible in part by USDA‑NIFA‑funded NextGen Grant.

January 21, 2026February 5, 2026

UOG sustainability partners unite to welcome students at orientation with comprehensive outreach experience

Members from programs were on hand to explain and promote the offerings to new students to UOG. The sustainability group included representatives from over 10 programs within UOG CIS and Sea Grant and Guam NSF EPSCoR.

Ella Fedenko from the UOG CIS and Sea Grant turtle project and Franki Guerrero from Guam NSF EPSCoR provide incoming students with information on their projects and potential fellowship opportunities. The two programs were among the many represented by the group.

Students had hands-on exposure to many native plants through the presentations from the UOG CIS and Sea Grant Natural Resources Division and members its Island Conservation Lab.

The University of Guam’s commitment to sustainability and student opportunity was on full display during the recent UOG New Student Orientation event organized by the UOG’s student services team, where a coalition of campus programs came together to present a unified, student-focused welcome.

The University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant (UOG CIS & Sea Grant), NSF Navigating Home, Guam NSF EPSCoR, the SEAS Islands Alliance, and Guam Green Growth collaborated to host a comprehensive booth designed to introduce new and returning students to a wide range of academic, research, and fellowship opportunities centered on sustainability and island resilience.

Rather than operating as separate programs, the partners intentionally created a shared space that highlighted how their efforts intersect—connecting environmental research, workforce development, Indigenous knowledge, and community-based solutions. Staff and student representatives were on hand throughout the event to answer questions, distribute informational materials, and encourage students to explore pathways that align with their academic interests and career goals.

“Our goal was to make it easy for students to see the bigger picture,” said Gabby Topasna from UOG CIS & Sea Grant. “These programs are deeply connected, and together they offer students hands-on experiences, paid fellowships, research opportunities, and mentorship focused on sustainability issues that matter here on Guam and across the region.”

Students visiting the booth learned about opportunities ranging from undergraduate research and internships to fellowships and professional development programs supported by the National Science Foundation. Programs such as Navigating Home and Guam NSF EPSCoR emphasized pathways for students to engage in place-based research, while the SEAS Islands Alliance and Guam Green Growth showcased regional partnerships and applied solutions aimed at building a more sustainable island future.

“The student experience is a large part of what makes our programs successful,” said Franki Guerrero from Guam NSF EPSCoR. “Showing them the opportunities that lie within our programs that not only help them learn and get that hands-on experience but also help them deal with some of the costs via our stipends, really goes a long way in helping them navigate through this time of their lives.”

The collaborative booth also served as a platform to highlight ongoing sustainability initiatives at UOG, reinforcing the university’s role as a leader in addressing climate change, environmental stewardship, and economic resilience in island communities.

Programs represented include:

UOG CIS and Sea Grant Turtle Program
Guam NSF EPSCoR (E-Core and E-Rise)
Micronesia Challenge
Guihan for Guahan
Guam Restoration of Watersheds (GROW)
UOG CIS and Sea Grant Natural Resources (Island Conservation Lab)
Guam Green Growth Action Framework
G3 Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub
NSF Navigating Home & SEAS Islands Alliance
UOG CIS and Sea Grant Community Engagement

For many students, the booth was their first introduction to the breadth of sustainability-focused work taking place on campus. Organizers said the response underscored the value of presenting a coordinated message that connects academic programs with real-world impact.

As UOG continues to expand its sustainability and research initiatives, presenters noted that events like student orientation are critical moments to engage students early, helping them see how their education can contribute to meaningful solutions for Guam and the wider region.

January 16, 2026January 21, 2026

UOG recruiting members for the sixth season of the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps

The Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps is gearing up for its sixth season with applications now open at guamgreengrowth.org. Those interested in sustainability and the emerging green economy are welcomed to apply. Field work, research modules and community work are all a part of the upcoming season’s curriculum.

Members of the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps will participate in a 5-month long workforce development program that will provide training and skills for the emerging green economy. Full time positions are available and require a 40 hour a week commitment. Applications are open now.

The Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps is a workforce development program that will feature focus areas such as agriculture, aquaculture, island beautification, circular economy, invasive species, fisheries research and more.

The University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant (UOG CIS & Sea Grant) are happy to announce that applications are now open for the sixth season of the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps (G3CC), continuing their robust workforce development plan that has graduated nearly 100 local workers who have developed skills for the emerging green economy.

The G3CC offers participants hands-on experience in conservation, sustainability, and climate-related projects that support Guam’s natural resources while building job-ready skills. Since its launch, the program has served as a pathway for residents of all backgrounds and ages to gain practical training, professional mentorship, and paid service opportunities aligned with Guam’s green economy goals.

“The G3 Conservation Corps is our flagship workforce development program preparing local workers for careers in the green economy. Its success has led to expansion into four additional companion programs,” explained Austin Shelton Ph.D., the director for UOG CIS & Sea Grant. “This Corps is a great launchpad for a new career path, a refresher, or for you to work on something you are already passionate about in sustainability. We invite all interested community members to apply today.”

Members of the Conservation Corps work on projects that may include watershed restoration, invasive species management, circular economy, food security efforts, aquaculture, agriculture, and community education. The program emphasizes leadership development, teamwork, and civic engagement, preparing participants for future careers in environmental fields.

Annania Nauta Kemp, the lead for the community engagement program has seen great results in past cohorts and looks forward to further growth for the island community.

“We have had people join straight out of high school who are now very comfortable in their career path thanks to the network and experience this program builds,” explained Kemp. “At the same time, we have retirees who are ready for their next adventure and accountants who just wanted a change of scenery come out of the program very well, too. If you feel the call to serve your community and are ready to learn and get down in the dirt with us, this can be a great way for you to shape your future.”

Now entering its sixth cohort, the program reflects growing interest and sustained momentum in Guam Green Growth’s broader mission to balance economic development with environmental protection and social well-being.

“This program really changed my perspective on sustainability and how we can make things better for our people of Guahan,” said Joseph Certeza, a G3CC Season 1 graduate who now works as a part of the program team. “This program taught me a lot, and helped me to gain not only the skills, but also the confidence to move forward in the eras of my life.”

Applications for the sixth cohort are open now and available online at GuamGreenGrowth.org. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply early and review eligibility requirements and program details on the website.

Selected team members will receive a bi-weekly stipend of $1300 and continuing education credits from the University of Guam through the Global Learning and Engagement program. Applicants must be 18 years or older, open to indoor and outdoor work, and able to work full-time at 40 hours a week.

To apply for the Guam Green Growth Conservation Corps and to learn more about other G3 initiatives, visit GuamGreenGrowth.org.

January 9, 2026March 13, 2026

Undergraduate Research Opportunity Focused on Maritime Energy in Alaska and Guam (UAF Summer REU)

The University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) Alaska Center for Energy and Power (ACEP) summer internship is a 10-week program for students interested in renewable energy and energy security.

One of the projects will study Maritime Energy in Alaska and Guam, mentored by Magnus de Witt.

WEBSITE to apply: https://www.uaf.edu/acep/education-workforce-development/summer-internship-program/internship-program.php

PROJECT ABSTRACT

Maritime Energy in Alaska and Guam
Mentor: Magnus de Witt
Location: Fairbanks
Key topics: Maritime Energy, Energy Economics, Energy Security, Arctic-Pacific collaborations
Strand: REU

Maritime energy technologies represent a rapidly emerging technology, with significant potential to help coastal and island communities harness local energy resources. By harnessing the power of waves, tides, currents, and offshore wind, reliance on imported fossil fuels can be reduced, supporting more resilient and sustainable energy systems. The utilization of local resources is of particular interest for remote and isolated communities, where transporting conventional fuels is logistically challenging and costly.

At first glance, Alaska and Guam may appear to have little in common, one located in the far north and the other in the western Pacific; a closer look, however, shows substantial similarities. Both regions are geographically remote, heavily dependent on imported fossil fuel, and consequently face high and volatile energy costs. Their dependence on external fuel supplies makes them vulnerable to disruptions in the global energy market, supply chain risks, and to geopolitical shocks.

In addition to these shared challenges, both Alaska and Guam hold strategic importance for U.S. national security. Each region hosts critical dual-use infrastructure that requires reliable and secure energy systems. Therefore, maintaining resilient energy infrastructure is crucial for ensuring operational readiness and supporting the resilience of local communities. Developing and deploying maritime energy technologies in these regions could therefore strengthen not only local energy independence and economic stability but also contribute to national security by enhancing the resilience of vital assets in remote locations.

Project Description: This project will combine detailed economic modeling, energy security evaluation, and technological feasibility studies of maritime energy sources in Alaska and Guam, aiming to promote sustainable, secure, and economically beneficial maritime energy systems in remote islanded locations.

How do the energy economics of maritime decarbonization in Guam and Alaska compare?
What lessons can Guam and Alaska share about balancing national defense, maritime trade, and clean energy transition goals?
Energy security analysis focusing on local energy availability, reliability, and supply diversification.
Techno-economic feasibility of renewable marine energy resources in the specific geographic and climatic contexts of Alaska and Guam.
Environmental and socio-economic benefits, such as emissions reduction and local workforce development.

Project Goals / Expected Outcomes: A report on the lessons learned, both positive and negative, and resulting recommendations for future geothermal projects. Additionally, it is expected that the student will present the research to his peers and, if possible, to a broader community. A student who is motivated to aim for publication in a scientific journal is strongly encouraged to apply.

Relevant Majors and Skills: This project seeks a student who is passionate about geothermal and energy economics. It is not bound to a particular field of study; however, the student should have some understanding of geothermal, economics, and geology. Moreover, the student should possess strong communication skills and a desire to solve problems independently. Possible majors include geology, energy economics, geothermal, or geophysics.

Work setting: This intern will work from the ACEP Fairbanks office. Mentorship will be in person.

November 17, 2025January 13, 2026

UOG students earn national recognition at 2025 SACNAS NDiSTEM Conference

The University of Guam delegation stands tall at the SACNAS NDiSTEM conference in Columbus, Ohio. The group consisted of grant funded staff and students in STEM, many of whom that presented their research, at the largest diversity in STEM conference in the country.

Guam NSF EPSCoR and UOG Marine Lab student Napu Camacho presents his research at the SACNAS NDiSTEM conference in Columbus, Ohio. Camacho was one of the twelve UOG students who submitted abstracts and were selected to present at the national conference. His research looked to explore Guam’s marine fish diversity through environmental DNA analysis.

Amongst the hundreds of presenters at SACNAS NDiSTEM, three UOG students Azer Bilimon, Archancel Abellera and Cameron San Agustin were recognized for their presentations overall. All three students are participants in the NSF INCLUDES SEAS Programs at the University of Guam in partnership with the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant.

The University of Guam strengthened its presence in STEM (Science Technology Engineering & Mathematics) at the 2025 Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) National Diversity in STEM (NDiSTEM) Conference, where three UOG students earned national recognition for their research presentations.

UOG School of Engineering student Azer Bilimon received the Native American/Indigenous Student Research Abstract Award, while Archancel Abellera and Cameron San Agustin received Outstanding Research Presentation awards.

Continuing its strong participation in SACNAS, UOG sent a 28-member delegation—17 of them students—to this year’s conference including Lt. Governor Joshua Tenorio, who serves as a co-principal investigator for NSF Navigating Home and was the keynote speaker. The nation’s largest multicultural and multidisciplinary STEM event took place in Columbus, Ohio, gathering researchers and students from across the United States and its territories.

Cheryl Sangueza, Ph.D., a co-principal investigator of the NSF INCLUDES SEAS and NSF Navigating Home grants, and the head of student experience for Guam NSF EPSCoR, has led several months of preparation for students representing UOG at the conference.

“All EPSCoR and SEAS INCLUDES students who submitted an abstract were accepted to present and everyone smashed it,” exclaimed Sangueza. “SACNAS, where students present their research, network, meet phenomenal and inspiring scientists, and explore next step opportunities, is a key experience in the pathway to graduate school and for career decisions.”

Sangueza along with her capacity building team, who work across the NSF grants, UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant (UOG CIS & Sea Grant) and Guam Green Growth coordinate with students from the high school to graduate levels across various programs designed to increase success in STEM fields.

“As a past SACNAS Chapter of the Year, the University of Guam continues to advance island-based research and scientific voices from across Micronesia,” said Austin Shelton, Ph.D., director of the UOG CIS & Sea Grant. “We are proud that three of our students earned recognition at this year’s SACNAS NDiSTEM Conference. Their work reflects UOG’s growing community of locally trained scientists who address climate and biodiversity challenges through island knowledge and innovation.”

Award Winning Presentations

Bilimon presented “Evaluating the Mechanical and Sustainable Benefits of Fibrous Reinforcement in Seawater and Freshwater Mortar Mixtures.” Under the mentorship of Ernesto J. Guades, Ph.D., Bilimon studied how adding coconut fibers affects the strength and sustainability of mortar. The project was inspired by the resource challenges that island communities such as Guam and the Marshall Islands face.

Bilimon tested different fiber types, lengths, and amounts using a standard cement-sand-water mix to measure compressive strength. His research demonstrates how reusing waste materials—such as glass and discarded coconut shells—can reduce waste and support sustainable construction. By using seawater instead of freshwater, the study also addresses water scarcity and promotes eco-friendly building materials that reflect Indigenous knowledge and environmental sustainability in Pacific Island communities.

Abellera presented “Preserving Endangered Orchids in the Marianas: Propagation Techniques for Species Recovery.” Her research focuses on conserving Dendrobium guamense, an endangered orchid found only in the Marianas. To support recovery efforts, Abellera tested two propagation methods—division and stem cuttings—to identify the most effective approach for replanting and conservation.

San Agustin presented “Exploring Propagation Techniques for Conservation of Myrtella bennigseniana, a Native Savanna Shrub.” His study examined how to improve the propagation of Myrtella bennigseniana, a native shrub that helps restore Guam’s savanna ecosystems threatened by land development and habitat loss.

Else Demeulenaere, Ph.D., associate director for natural resources at the UOG Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant, mentored both Abellera and San Agustin.

“The research presented by our students at the SACNAS NDiSTEM Conference speaks to their talent, hard work, and the strength of their academic preparation,” said UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez, DBA. “Their success reinforces our mission to empower students to advance science that serves island communities and inspires regional progress.”

For more than five decades, SACNAS has promoted diversity and inclusion in STEM by supporting students and professionals in pursuing advanced degrees, building careers, and contributing to their communities through science.

October 23, 2025November 17, 2025

Guam Green Growth Makerspace to hold weaving and laser engraver workshops to close out October

Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub technician Justin Cruz works with attendees of a laser engraver workshop at the CHamoru Village campus. The group will host another laser engraver workshop to close out October's training schedule.

Participants in a weaving workshop at the Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub learn the CHamoru Skills of creation with the coconut leaves. A katupat weaving workshop, compete with celebratory kadu, will be help this month at the CHamoru Village campus.

The University of Guam’s Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub has announced two workshops to be hosted at their CHamoru Village campus showcasing both cultural knowledge and high-tech innovation.

Fiber Laser Engraver Workshop

The fiber laser engraver workshop, to be held on Thursday, October 23rd from 5pm to 7:30pm, is geared toward the future of local entrepreneurship and design.

This modern, technical training will introduce attendees to the sophisticated world of fiber laser engraving, a process used for permanent marking and customization on materials like metals, plastics, and various industrial components. This skill is highly sought after in modern fabrication, manufacturing, and personalized gift industries.

“The workshop is perfect for designers, small business owners looking to expand their product offerings, or anyone interested in learning how to operate powerful, precision technology,” explained G3 Makerspace Coordinator Emily Wendte. “Mastering this tool provides a direct pathway into high-value, digitally driven production.”

Finanåguen Tinifok Katupat Weaving Workshop with Kadu

On the other end of the maker spectrum this weaving workshop, which will be held on Thursday, October 30th from 5pm to 7:30pm, focuses on the art of weaving the katupat, a diamond-shaped pouch traditionally woven from coconut leaves to hold rice. More than just a craft, tinifok (weaving) is a vital part of CHamoru heritage, blending sustainability with a functional art form.

Led by CHamoru weaver Martha Tenorio, the workshop provides hands-on instruction in this generational skill. It is a powerful chance for attendees to actively engage in cultural preservation, ensuring this traditional knowledge and the intricate, natural beauty of katupat continue to thrive.

According to Abby Crain the G3 Circular Economy Coordinator, along with the weaving showcase, participants will be treated to some kadu, or CHamoru Stew, to eat with the rice cooked in the katupat.

These two events highlight a strong community focus on holistic development. By valuing the knowledge passed down through generations—like the weaving of the katupat—while simultaneously developing modern digital manufacturing skills, the island community builds a resilient, prosperous, and culturally secure future.

Interested participants are encouraged to secure their spots soon as capacity is limited for these specialized sessions. Registration can be completed digitally at https://www.eventbrite.com/o/guam-green-growth-circular-economy-makerspace and more information about the G3 Makerspace is available at guamgreengrowth.org.