Feature Stories 2025: Trina Xavier MS '25: Data and the blue economy

Trina Xavier MS '25 came to the U.S. from India to study data science, a decision that was driven by the high demand for data specialists worldwide. "Data science is booming," she said, "and there are so many ways we can use data to help humanity."  

At UMass Dartmouth, Xavier found what she was looking for: a rigorous program where she could build in-demand technical skills, and a collaborative, multicultural community. What she didn’t expect to discover was a new passion for marine science and technology. This summer, she’s combining all three in two ocean-focused internships at Aloft Systems and UMassD’s School for Marine Science and Technology (SMAST), where she’s applying data science to real-world challenges in the blue economy. 

A glimpse into the world of ocean tech 

Xavier's introduction to the blue economy came during a weeklong externship with Courage Builder (formerly known as Tribe Academy), a local startup dedicated to career exploration and diversity in STEM fields. UMass Dartmouth's partnership with Courage Builder exposed Xavier to the many opportunities available locally in the blue economy sector, from renewable energy to underwater technology. 

"I wanted to be in a collaborative and multicultural environment, and that's what I found here."

"I learned so much in a single week; I met PhD students, saw an offshore wind farm, and learned about careers related to ocean technology.  That experience sparked my interest and made me want to bring my data science skills to the marine sector," Xavier said.  

From scallops to sails: using data to power sustainable solutions 

This summer, Xavier is a member of the Blue Technologies and Innovation Career Pathways Program supported by the partnership between UMassD and Courage Builder. Through this program, Xavier has a machine learning internship with the Marine Fisheries Field Research group led by SMAST Dean Kevin Stokesbury.  In her role with the research group, Xavier uses machine learning to help improve object detection in the videos produced by drop-camera surveys of sea scallop fishing grounds.  Her work aims to help automate scallop-detection with more accurate results.  

"The energy at SMAST is infectious," she said. "I love learning about fisheries, seeing sea creatures under the water, and learning from people in different specialties. I enjoy the community here, and the inspiration I feel every day to keep learning. 

"I'm very grateful to the people at UMassD who helped open these doors and gave me the opportunity to do work that directly impacts New Bedford fishers and the local economy." 

Xavier is also an intern at Aloft Systems, a Boston-based startup developing technology that uses wind power to reduce maritime shipping costs and emissions. Xavier is working on a machine learning algorithm that can predict wind speed and direction to maximize the performance of Aloft's modular robotic sails.  

Looking back 

Of her UMassD experience, Xavier said, "I wanted to be in a collaborative and multicultural environment, and that's what I found here. When I think about my time at UMass Dartmouth, I think I was affected as much by the community as I was by the academic experience.  I've had many opportunities to grow as a person. 

"I'm surprised by how much I've come to love this area too. I love being near the beach and being part of the community here in Dartmouth." 

What's next 

"Going forward, I want to work somewhere I can help make an impact, whether that's in the blue economy, or in climate and sustainability. I always want to keep learning and exploring."