Empowering the Next Generation of Subsea Professionals
WAVE is a global symposium series hosted by the SubOptic Foundation, designed to inspire, educate, and connect students and early-career professionals with the world of submarine cable technology.
What Is WAVE?
The WAVE series is a global symposium hosted by the SubOptic Foundation, designed to inspire, educate, and connect students, early career professionals, government representatives, and academics. As the first step in our educational journey, WAVE events offer a unique platform, delivered in the local language, to explore the dynamic world of global digital infrastructure, fostering a deeper understanding of the submarine cable industry and its vital role in global connectivity.
Each WAVE event features:
Presentations from experts across the subsea ecosystem
Career development panels
Networking with global subsea leaders
Locally relevant content in the region’s native language
Global Events, Local Impact
WAVE symposia are hosted around the world, tailored to regional contexts and delivered in local languages. From London to Lisbon, Chile to Singapore, each event connects emerging talent with subsea industry leaders, creating a springboard for careers in digital infrastructure. Explore the growing list of locations where WAVE has made an impact, and find out how to get involved in the next one.
How WAVE Makes an Impact
WAVE is more than a symposium. It’s a career catalyst. By connecting early-career talent with industry veterans, we’re building bridges to future roles, ideas, and innovations in the subsea cable sector.
Real-World Learning
From cable landing stations to sustainability frameworks, participants gain hands-on knowledge of subsea infrastructure.
Networking That Matters
Direct interaction with engineers, researchers, and project leads opens doors to internships, mentorships, and global opportunities.
Global Perspectives
Each WAVE event reflects local culture and language, while contributing to the global dialogue on digital infrastructure.
Spotlight: Voices of WAVE
Behind every WAVE symposium is a story of discovery, connection, and growth. Meet the students, mentors, and industry leaders shaping, and being shaped by this global programme.
"Growing up in rural Kenya I saw the struggles with connectivity: this inspired me to be part of the solution"
“I’ve been actively involved in reducing the subsea industry’s carbon footprint for over a year now; it’s hands-on, dynamic and meaningful - I love it!”
"WAVE is all about engaging early career professionals, and students - introducing them to our diverse and dynamic industry"
"What I really like about working in this industry is the global reach: subsea fibre optic cables stretch all around the world, connecting people from the busiest places to some of the most remote"
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Get Involved with WAVE
Whether you’re a student curious about the subsea cable industry, a professional willing to give up your time, or an institution looking to host. There’s a place for you in the WAVE movement.
Students & Early-Career Professionals
Join a WAVE symposium near you to learn from leaders, ask questions, and discover new career pathways in digital infrastructure.
Industry Experts
Share your journey, spark curiosity, and give back to the next generation by getting involved in a WAVE event.
Universities & Hosts
Partner with the SubOptic Foundation to bring WAVE to your region. We’ll help coordinate speakers, content, and logistics.
Explore Previous WAVE Events
Since its launch, WAVE has travelled across the globe, from Europe to Africa to Asia, creating a platform for dialogue, learning, and connection. Explore highlights and access resources from our growing archive of symposia.
Support the Future of Subsea
WAVE exists thanks to the generous support of our partners, sponsors, and donors who believe in building a diverse and capable future workforce for the subsea cable industry.
Your contribution enables:
More events in underrepresented regions
Free access for students and young professionals
Development of educational materials and translation resources
Greater reach through digital platforms
Ready to inspire the future of subsea?
Get involved in WAVE today. As a participant, mentor, or partner.
