Earlier this June, 11 members of the Entarian team attended NOAA’s Great American Fish Festival—known to many as the “NOAA Fish Fry”—in Washington, D.C. This annual event brings together federal partners, NOAA experts, industry representatives, and seafood enthusiasts to celebrate the quality, economic impact, and sustainability of American seafood, as well as the commercial fishing communities that have shaped the nation for generations. This year’s event also marked America’s 250th birthday with a special focus on the future of U.S. seafood, from resilient wild‑capture fisheries to innovations in domestic aquaculture.
Beyond being an amazing culinary experience, the festival underscored the economic, environmental, and cultural importance of the U.S. fishing industry. It highlighted the collective responsibility to support the people and communities who make American seafood possible, and to advance the science‑based stewardship that keeps those resources sustainable. NOAA’s leadership in marine research, climate resilience, and fisheries management plays a central role in that effort, serving as both a scientific authority and a committed community partner.
“Events like this remind us why science, data, and on‑the‑ground collaboration matter,” said Chang Zhao, Entarian’s VP of Space & Earth Science. “Our work with NOAA over the years has helped ensure that our fisheries remain strong, not just for today’s harvest, but for future generations who depend on healthy oceans and thriving coastal economies.”
Having partnered with NOAA for more than 20 years, Entarian was proud to support this year’s festival. Our teams have long assisted NOAA’s mission both at sea and in coastal communities, with staff aboard research and commercial vessels and working alongside local partners to protect people, property, and livelihoods. The event offered a chance for our team to reconnect with NOAA colleagues and reaffirm how our shared commitments continue to strengthen over time.
“Our partnership with NOAA is built on trust, technical excellence, and a shared dedication to public service,” said Tara LeBlanc, VP of Civilian Mission Solutions. “NOAA’s Great American Fish Festival underscores the profound importance of sustainable fisheries to our economy, environment, and national heritage. This annual celebration highlights the dedicated science, policy, and stewardship that keep U.S. fisheries among the world’s most sustainable.”
Our attendees returned energized by the conversations, the science shared throughout the evening, and the perspectives gained from partners across the fisheries community. The festival was a powerful reminder of the role that technology, research, and collaboration play in protecting the ecosystems, industries, and communities that sustain us. We’re honored to have been part of this celebration and to continue contributing to work that makes a real impact.
