Bay Foundation Collab

A Connection Sparked by Shared Purpose
‍

Sometimes the best partnerships begin by chance, or, as Kory puts it, “serendipitously.” The relationship between the Aquatic Futures Foundation (AFF) and The Bay Foundation grew from a simple introduction, mutual respect and shared goals. Kory first met Sean Taylor, now The Bay Foundation’s Ocean Resilience Program Coordinator, years earlier while working at USC’s Wrigley Marine Science Center on Catalina Island.

‍

When Sean joined The Bay Foundation, he remembered Kory’s dedication to both diving and education. Knowing Kory was ready for a new chapter, Sean connected him with Tom Ford, The Bay Foundation’s Executive Director. The conversation flowed naturally, two organizations aligned in mission, committed to ocean conservation, equity, and building pathways for the next generation of marine professionals.
‍

“It was really serendipitous, the kind of partnership that just made sense from the start.”

‍

Strength Through Collaboration
‍

In February 2024, Aquatic Futures Foundation officially became a nonprofit, a milestone marking the beginning of a bold, community-driven movement to expand access to ocean science careers. As a PADI Specialty Dive Instructor and AAUS Scientific Diver, Kory had long envisioned a bridge between professional diving certification and scientific research training.

‍

That bridge became real through the collaboration with The Bay Foundation. Together, the two nonprofits combine strengths:

• The Bay Foundation provides structure, experience, and a proven track record in marine restoration and workforce programs.
• AFF brings inclusive training, diving mentorship, and direct community engagement to prepare diverse students for scientific diving.

‍

Through this partnership, AFF is now able to train and certify AAUS Scientific Divers, a credential essential for research diving, while The Bay Foundation benefits from AFF’s ability to help expand its workforce development capacity.

‍

“The Bay Foundation gives us stability and reach; we give them the hands-on training system to bring new, diverse talent into the field.”

‍

Expanding Horizons for the Next Generation
‍

The partnership is just beginning to ripple outward. Currently, AFF and The Bay Foundation host one Scientific Diving cohort per year, balancing workforce development with community outreach. But the vision doesn’t stop there.

‍

Kory’s goal is to expand these programs, to see multiple cohorts each year, and to establish a dedicated training facility in Southern California. A permanent space for scientific diving and maritime career preparation would not only increase capacity, but also create long-term sustainability for the region’s ocean workforce.

‍

“Our goal is a home base, a year-round hub where students from all backgrounds can learn, train, and grow in the water.”

‍

The Joy of Purposeful Partnership

‍

When asked what makes this collaboration so fulfilling, Kory’s answer is simple: it’s about the people. Working with a team that shares his passion for conservation and equity keeps him motivated, even amid challenges.

‍

“The joy comes from the quality of people we get to work with,” he says. “Despite all that’s happening in the world, it’s inspiring to be surrounded by individuals who fight every day to protect California’s coastlines and ensure these programs continue to thrive.”

‍

Together, The Bay Foundation and Aquatic Futures Foundation are not just training diverse, they’re building a future workforce ready to defend, restore, and celebrate the ocean for generations to come.