Discover the Blue Economy: Panel Discussion – Registration
$75.00
Where Water Meets Opportunity
Join Swim Strong Foundation for an afternoon exploring the future of New York’s waterways and the careers emerging from the Blue Economy. Sunday, November 15, 2026, 2:00–5:00 PM at Neir’s Tavern in Woodhaven, Queens.
Ticket Pricing
Early bird: $75 through October 16
$100 thereafter
Registration is required. Bring your curiosity, your questions, and especially the young people in your life. Ages 16 and older
The future is blue, and Swim Strong is part of it.
- Description
Description
Where Water Meets Opportunity
Swim Strong Foundation invites our families, friends, and guests to an engaging afternoon exploring the future of New York’s waterways, and the careers and opportunities emerging from the Blue Economy.
Sunday, November 15, 2026
2:00–5:00 PM
Neir’s Tavern | Woodhaven, Queens
At Swim Strong, our relationship with water has always gone far beyond learning how to swim. We are developing stronger swimmers, knowledgeable citizens, safer communities, and brighter futures.
The Blue Economy encompasses the many industries, professions, and innovations connected to water: environmental sustainability, aquaculture, engineering, architecture, maritime industries, recreation, technology, and urban development. For young people especially, these are fields filled with possibilities they may never have considered.
Meet Our Panel
- Eric Gardiner, New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC)
- Greg Pucillo, +POOL & Seaweed Researcher
- Meghan Reilly, North American Marine Environment Protection Association (NAMEPA)
- Vincent Lee, Principal, ARUP
- Moderator: Meta Brunzema, Pratt Institute and Collective for Community, Culture, & Environment, LLC
What We’ll Explore
- What exactly is the Blue Economy, and why does it matter to New York City?
- What new careers and industries are emerging around our waterways?
- How are sustainability, engineering, design, technology, and environmental stewardship changing the way we interact with water?
- What skills and educational pathways can prepare young people for these opportunities?
- Where does Swim Strong fit into this exciting future?
This is not just a conversation for professionals. It is also a conversation for families and young people. The waterways surrounding New York City can be places to learn, work, innovate, protect, explore, and build a future.
Ticket Pricing
Early bird: $75 through October 16
$100 thereafter
Registration is required. Bring your curiosity, your questions, and especially the young people in your life. Ages 16 and older
The future is blue, and Swim Strong is part of it.
