Exploring Careers in the Blue Economy and Aquaculture: Interview with Anoushka Concepcion – Aquaculture & Algae Expert

The Blue Economy offers a diverse range of career paths, from marine biology to sustainable business initiatives. To shed light on these opportunities, we’re continuing our series of interviews with professionals who have carved out unique roles in this sector. Through their stories, we explore the skills, challenges, and opportunities shaping careers in the blue sectors—offering valuable insights for those looking to make a difference in the ocean economy.

Our next guest is Anoushka Concepcion, an aquaculture specialist based in the United States. With over two decades of experience, Anoushka brings deep expertise in sustainable aquaculture, public engagement, and problem-solving. She shares her professional journey, the challenges of grant-funded work, and the importance of business skills in the blue economy.

Meet Anoushka Concepcion

Current Role: Aquaculture Specialist
Industry: Aquaculture, Marine Science, Public Engagement
Location: United States

What inspired you to pursue a career in aquaculture?

Anoushka’s passion for marine science began during her childhood, sparked by hands-on experiences in academic programs and summer camps. “My first exposure to marine science was through summer camps and academic programs,” she explains. “These early experiences sparked a passion for the ocean and led me down the path of aquaculture.” What started as curiosity soon became a clear professional calling—one that allowed her to combine science with real-world impact.

A Day in the Life

Her daily routine is anything but predictable. Anoushka describes a varied and dynamic schedule that includes working with seaweed or shellfish farmers, attending stakeholder meetings, analyzing data, and designing educational outreach materials. “I’ve been fortunate to have jobs where I work with seaweed or shellfish farmers, attend stakeholder meetings, and analyze research data. No two days are the same!” she says. This blend of fieldwork, research, and communication is part of what makes the job so fulfilling.

The Exciting and Challenging Aspects of the Job

For Anoushka, the most rewarding part of her work lies in helping others overcome obstacles. “I love solving problems,” she says. “I’ve had individual farmers reach out needing help with specific site issues, or agencies seeking science to support decisions.” Whether it's technical troubleshooting or contributing to broader strategies, the opportunity to turn challenges into solutions is what keeps her motivated.

But her job isn’t without difficulties. A major hurdle is the uncertainty that comes with grant-funded work. “Most of my work has relied on grant funding, which can be stressful and makes it difficult to plan long-term projects,” she notes. This constant need to secure resources can be mentally and professionally taxing—something that’s often invisible to those outside the field.

Key Skills for Success

When it comes to thriving in aquaculture and marine science, Anoushka emphasizes that technical expertise alone is not enough. “A good foundation in biology is important,” she explains, “but even more critical are communication skills and the ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds.” Whether facilitating community partnerships or translating complex data into accessible knowledge, soft skills play a crucial role in her day-to-day work.

Work-Life Balance & Career Satisfaction

While Anoushka finds deep meaning in her work, she’s honest about its limitations in terms of financial reward. “It’s fair, but not great,” she says when asked about her salary. On work-life balance, she adds, “I’m somewhat satisfied—I wish there were more flexibility sometimes.” Despite these constraints, she values the purpose, autonomy, and variety her role provides.

Future Outlook: Where is the Industry Heading?

Looking ahead, Anoushka is optimistic about the direction of aquaculture. “Aquaculture production will continue to expand, and I think we’ll see more use of technology, more community-based projects, and a stronger focus on sustainability,” she says. She envisions a future where seaweed and shellfish farming grow in importance—not only as food sources, but as tools for ecological regeneration and climate resilience.

Career Advice for Aspiring Professionals

If she could speak to her younger self, Anoushka would offer one practical piece of advice: “Take business classes—especially if you want to manage or support aquaculture operations. I wish I had done that earlier.” Understanding the financial and entrepreneurial dimensions of marine work, she explains, is increasingly essential in today’s interdisciplinary job market.

Where to learn more about Anoushka’s Work

You can follow Anoushka’s professional updates, research insights, and stakeholder projects on LinkedIn.

Stay tuned for more inspiring interviews with professionals shaping the future of the Blue Economy!📢 Know someone with an exciting career in marine sciences or the Blue Economy? Let us know—we’d love to feature them!