SANDY HOOK, N.J. — Mae Skrba of Millstone Township, N.J., a marine science teacher at the Marine Academy of Science and Technology (MAST) in Sandy Hook, N.J., is the recipient of a 2025 Women & Wildlife Award presented by the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey. Skrba is being recognized in the Education category for her contributions to environmental education and her dedication to inspiring the next generation of conservation leaders.
"Receiving this award is a huge achievement and honor,” Skrba said. “The list of people who have come before me in receiving this award have been such role models to me and my teaching style. The recognition for my work with New Jersey Fish and Wildlife, and at MAST, seems to echo the impact I hope I am having on my students.”
Skrba has blended her background in nonprofit and government conservation work with her teaching at MAST, creating hands-on experiences for her students. From beach walks exploring seasonal dune changes to fish studies aboard the school’s 65-foot research vessel, she brings the natural world directly into her classroom. She also helped launch Ladies at S.E.A. (Science and Engineering Applied), a summer program for middle school girls that fosters interest and confidence in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields. She also serves as a marine educator and ecologist with New Jersey Fish and Wildlife at the Sedge Island Natural Resource Education Center.
“I began my career in nonprofits—fighting plastic pollution, coordinating citizen scientists, and rallying communities for rivers. When I started teaching, I felt more prepared to tag a shark than teach high schoolers. Coming through an alternate route, I often battled imposter syndrome. But at MAST, that unconventional path has become my greatest strength. What I once dreamed of—teaching through hands-on fieldwork—has become my reality here.”
Students credit Skrba for sparking their curiosity and commitment to protecting New Jersey’s environment.
“If you learn about the world through a textbook, then you have missed out on the best parts of education.” said Nicholas Billows, a senior at MAST who also interns with New Jersey Fish and Wildlife. “Mrs. Skrba has given us the tools to see the world beyond lectures and assigned readings. She gave us an education that makes you think deeper when you see the world, one that makes you feel a connection you did not feel before. She has inspired us all to continue her work to protect our marine ecosystems.”
The Women & Wildlife Awards celebrate conservation leaders who advance environmental education, stewardship and advocacy across the state. Skrba’s recognition reflects her passion, creativity and commitment to ensuring her students, and future generations, are equipped to care for New Jersey’s diverse ecosystems.
The award will be presented Oct. 15 at the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey’s annual Women & Wildlife Awards ceremony.
About MCVSD
MCVSD operates six full-time Career Academies including the Academy of Allied Health and Science, Academy of Law and Public Safety, Biotechnology High School, Communications High School, High Technology High School and Marine Academy of Science and Technology. Each welcomes students as freshmen and retains those students through their senior year of high school, for a focused learning experience that helps them take meaningful steps toward their college and career goals.
MCVSD also operates more than 30 shared-time programs, a Career Center for students with special needs and adult programs. Questions about the admissions process for the MCVSD Career Academies or any other career and technical education program offered by MCVSD should be directed to applications@ctemc.org.