WHALEFALL addresses the links between ecological degradation, economic systems, and social inequity by identifying leverage points where strategic shifts create lasting, cross-sector impact. Through equitable, project-based experiential education, WHALEFALL prepares students not only as engineers, ocean researchers, and science communicators, but also as leaders equipped to navigate real-world complexity. Solving environmental challenges requires both emerging technologies and new models of education to prepare the next generation of problem-solvers. WHALEFALL partners with local experts across the world to ensure long-term outcomes, sustainability, and local relevance rooted in dignity and shared agency. Boosting engagement and critical thinking through experiential learning, WHALEFALL’s model also creates direct environmental benefits as students contribute to marine data and help develop open-source marine technology.