Join us for a one-hour virtual discussion with program managers from major US funding agencies including the Office of Naval Research and National Science Foundation, with experience funding programs in ocean acoustics, underwater acoustics, or sea-going research. Panelists will cover pre-planned questions on when and how to reach out to a program manager, how to write an effective planning letter and proposal, and current available opportunities for different career levels (fellowships for students, early career awards, and funding opportunities for ocean research/tech development); as well as comment on their own career paths. Questions will be collected in advance as well as taken during the session by the moderator. This is an opportunity to both learn what it takes to be a program manager, and strategies and tips for learning about funding opportunities and responding effectively.