interviews – Page 2 – NOAA Teacher at Sea Blog

July 18, 2025July 24, 2025

Sinh Nguyen: Scientists who SEA, July 14, 2025

NOAA Teacher at Sea

Sinh Nguyen

Aboard NOAA Ship Pisces

July 7, 2025 – July 24, 2025

Mission: Larval Bluefin Tuna Slope Survey

Geographic Area of Cruise: North Atlantic Ocean, Slope Sea

Date: July 14, 2025

Weather Data:

1:32 PM Eastern Time

Norfolk, Virginia

The temperature is 32°C (89°F)

Career Spotlight

Uplift Education, Mighty K-12 scholars: Did you know some people have jobs where they explore the ocean, study sea animals, and help take care of our planet?

Some of you, even those already thinking ahead in middle or high school, might be wondering what kinds of jobs or studies you can pursue one day. Well, today we’re going to meet some real-life ocean heroes: the scientists on the science crew who are sailing aboard NOAA Ship Pisces for the larval bluefin tuna mission. They come from all over the United States and are experts at what they do.

Why are they awesome? If you’d like: go ahead and think, share, and then draw or write your responses on this digital whiteboard:

https://www.whiteboard.chat/board/963e0100-9dc6-4679-85ff-2116fdc539d1-pgNum-1

Based on some of your responses… these scientists are curious like inquirers, hardworking and knowledgeable, and they show they are caring by helping protect sea life. They are communicators who share what they know, and courageous learners who explore the unknown! Now, let’s learn more about our science crew to find out how you might be a sea explorer one day!

* Note: I’ll be updating this post throughout the cruise. These interviews were rephrased to fit into the blog. For full interview responses, please click here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1bvKvswISdjFMMqG7QNoc8FDox74Ysey-Xp2ERMLvajc/edit?usp=sharing

a view from an upper deck of NOAA Ship Pisces over the bow. Four women stand at the rail, leaning on their elbows, looking ahead as the ship exits the port of Norfolk. We can see tall buildings and other large ships off to each side. The words Meet the Scientists! are imposed in the middle of the image.

Meet the Scientists!

Hi, I’m David Richardson! I live in South Kingstown, Rhode Island, but grew up in Sierra Madre, California. I studied Natural Resources at Cornell University, then went to grad school at the University of Miami. I’m the chief scientist on this cruise, which means I help plan how we collect data to meet our science goals. My research focuses on larval fish, fish migrations, and how ocean conditions affect fisheries. My favorite marine animal’s the sail fish. They’re beautiful at every stage of life! I love science because it helps us make the world better. In fisheries science, our work helps keep fish populations healthy so people can continue to enjoy fishing and have access to food.

Fun fact: My first research was on baby eels near Barbados. I discovered and illustrated six types of eel larvae that were new to science! That experience showed me how much of the ocean is still a mystery. My advice: Pay attention in math and writing but also get outside! Observing nature is one of the best ways to become a great scientist.

photo of a woman in a float coat, black overalls, a beanie, aand workboots standing on an upper deck of the ship; we can see part of the bow, calm seas, and a cloudy sunset in the distance

My name’s Allison Black! I’m from eastern Connecticut and often at sea. I studied Zoo and Wildlife Biology at Malone University and worked briefly as a zookeeper before focusing on ornithology. My favorite (yet unseen) marine animal is the Wandering Albatross. They can travel over 75,000 miles a year! On this project, I’m surveying seabirds and marine mammals. I love the ocean’s mystery and the chance to keep learning through different cruises. Fun fact: by year’s end, I’ll have 500 sea days! My advice: stay flexible, stay curious, and seize opportunities you didn’t know existed.

I’m Chrissy Hernández! I grew up in New Jersey and now live in Oxford, England. I earned my bachelor’s from Columbia University and my PhD from the MIT-WHOI Joint Program in Oceanography. I’ve worked as a researcher at Cornell and Oxford. I’m a population ecologist who studies biological oceanography and theoretical ecology. My favorite marine animal is the bluefin tuna! Aboard the ship, I help deploy plankton nets, identify tuna larvae, and guide sampling efforts. I love the ocean’s vastness and mystery, and how tiny organisms like phytoplankton produce half the world’s oxygen. Fun fact: I once shaved my head and tossed the hair overboard during an equator-crossing tradition!

Hi, I’m Autumn Moya! I’m from Colorado and now live in Silver Spring, Maryland. I studied Biology at Western Colorado University with a focus on environmental biology, and I’m finishing my Master’s in Coastal Science at the University of Southern Mississippi. My research models how offshore development might affect the Atlantic surf clam fishery. I’m currently a John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellow with NOAA’s Office of Marine and Aviation Operations. I support communications, policy, and events. I’m excited to join research cruises like this one. My favorite marine animal is the cuttlefish. Did you know they can change color as fast as a blink? I’ve always loved the ocean, even growing up in a landlocked state. Since finishing my bachelor’s, I’ve lived in seven states! My advice to future scientists: stay curious and never hesitate to reach out. Science is for everyone!

Hi, I’m Amanda Jacobsen! I’m from Rhode Island. I studied Environmental Studies at Connecticut College and now I’m working on my master’s in Marine Biology at UMass Dartmouth. On this cruise, I help deploy nets and collect seawater to study the carbon in it. My favorite sea creature is the lumpfish. Look it up, it’s cool! I’ve worked on over 80 boats, and I love biology because it lets me explore the hidden world of ocean life.

Sometimes only visible under a microscope.

My advice to you: Stay curious and try new things, you might discover something amazing or meet someone who inspires you!

a woman kneels on the aft deck on one knee, both hands on a piece of scientific equipment (maybe a water profiler) resting on deck. she pauses what she is doing to turn and smile for the camera.

Hi! My name is Kristen Walter and I live in Miami, Florida. I graduated from the College of William and Mary with a master’s in marine science. I now work for the University of Miami/CIMAS studying coral reef fishes and bluefin tuna! My favorite marine animal is probably the nudibranch! I’m here on this cruise to help locate larval bluefin tuna, set and recover nets, preserve and identify fish, and test out new methods of capture using light traps. A fun fact about me is that I got to participate in the Aquarius Reef Base Underwater Habitat in Key Largo when I was in grad school. If you’d like to get into marine science, look for summer internships. Many places offer programs for high school students. Get your feet wet. Anything is possible!

Personal Log

Over the weekend, we moved back onto NOAA Ship Pisces. It felt nice to return after a few nights in a hotel while crew members got everything ready for our big mission.

view of computer screens, keyboards, mice on a wooden desk in an interior room of the ship — When we’re not setting things up, we spend time working in a place called the dry lab. The dry lab has computers, machines, and tables for us to study the ocean data we collect during the mission. I’ve been using this time to write my blog!

broader view of the dry lab: metal tables, a wooden desk, computers, computer chairs, two unidentifiable people sitting, facing away from the camera — Many scientists also bring their laptops, journals, or books to read or work on. It’s a quiet place where people come and go, but when it’s time to work, everyone jumps in to help!

three women - one seated at a desk, two standing - are in discussion. the seated woman holds up a piece of plastic film with her left hand. — Scientists Kristen, Chrissy, and Sarah are making sure the light traps for our drifters (for catching fish) are ready.

Just like we practice fire drills and safety rules at school, there are also important rules and practice drills in case of emergencies.

two people walk through a hallway of the ship toward an exit to an outer deck — Staying safe is super important when you’re out at sea.

a NOAA Corps Officer (in blue uniform) stands at the front of the mess hall and holds a breathing apparatus up; it blocks the view of his face. we can see the chair legs are capped in cut tennis balls to prevent them from sliding — Lieutenant Musick, one of the operations officers, is giving us safety training. He’s showing us how to use an EEBD (emergency escape breathing device).

a group of people stand outside on the aft deck, surrounding a NOAA Corps Officer in a blue uniform using his hands to illustrate a point — We were given a tour of places to know for emergencies. All crews were involved including members from science, NOAA Corps, engineer, and deck teams pictured here

a piece of paper attached to a door with a magnet. the paper reads: TAS Nguyen, Sinh, and then lists three sets of muster locations for Fire & Emergency, Abandon Ship, and Mariner Overboard. The three scenarios also include depictions of the corresponding morse code, shown as boxes or rectangles — Outside of each stateroom, or everyone’s rooms, there is information on where you report to and what your role is during emergencies. It’s a good idea to study this information!

Sinh (right) and a woman (left) pose for a selfie with a dummy used in safety exercises — With our floaty rescue dummy!

Safety first! I need to make sure I can stay afloat in case I ever have to evacuate into the water.

I tried on an immersion suit, or “Gumby suit,” to make sure I can float in water. It’s also designed to keep people warm in the water in case they have to abandon ship or go into the water.

Sinh, wearing his Teacher at Sea baseball cap, poses for a photo - making a shasta sign with his left hand and with his right, grasping the bagged survival suit and personal flotation device. he is standing on an outer deck. — So far, I’ve really enjoyed getting to know everyone on board. I’m a lot more familiar with everything around the ship, including where all the rooms, crew members, and emergency equipment are. I’m feeling excited about our mission once we set sail.

Next time, I’ll be writing about a special tool we use called the CTD (Conductivity, Temperature, and Depth), which helps us learn more about the ocean!

Did you know?

NOAA ships have their own weather stations right on board. That means they can measure wind, rain, temperature, and more. Even while they’re sailing across the ocean! What do you think scientists do with that information?

close up of a digital display mounted to a ceiling. currently it displays latitude and longitude — The station also shows navigational information, which gives everyone exact locations (coordinates) of the ship.

September 23, 2024November 5, 2024

Tonya Prentice: Sailing into New Horizons, August 26, 2024

NOAA Teacher at Sea
Tonya Prentice
Aboard NOAA Ship Henry B. Bigelow
August 8 – August 24, 2024

Mission: Northeast Ecosystem Monitoring Survey

Geographic Area of Cruise: Northwest Atlantic Ocean

Date: September 20, 2024

Weather Data from Bass Harbor, Maine
Latitude: 44.253636º N
Longitude: 68.34944º W
Wind Speed: 14 mph
Air Temperature: 15° Celsius (59° F)

Science and Technology Log

Tremont Consolidated School’s Drifter Buoys: Exploring Ocean Data in Real-Time!

I was so thrilled to learn that Tremont Consolidated School (TCS) had been given two drifter buoys, allowing our students to participate in a cutting-edge, real-world scientific endeavor. Through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Global Ocean Monitoring and Observing Program, our students will track these buoys as they gather crucial data from the ocean. This is a hands-on, dynamic opportunity that infuses real-time ocean observing system data into our science curriculum! NOAA Adopt a Drifter Program

Track Tremont Consolidated School’s drifting buoys here:
https://adp.noaa.gov/trackadrifter/tremont-consolidated-school

a screenshot from the webpage for Tremont Consolidated School's drifting buoy. It lists the adoption date (August 9, 2024) and the ID number (WMO #5301664.) It displays the Drifter ID card, with info on where it was deployed, and shows a graph of temperature readings over time, and a small map of the trajectory. — View of the tracking webpage for Drifter #1

What’s a Drifting Buoy? A drifting buoy, also called a drifter, is a floating data collection device that travels with ocean currents. These drifters are equipped to record various ocean parameters such as sea surface temperature, salinity, and wave height, all while transmitting this data hourly via satellite. The buoys provide valuable insights into oceanic conditions that impact weather forecasts, climate models, and even search and rescue operations.

Why Deploy One? The data collected by drifters offers key information that supports a wide range of scientific and practical applications. This data helps scientists understand how the ocean circulates, predict the movement of marine debris or oil spills, and make better weather predictions. By tracking our adopted drifters, TCS students will gain firsthand experience in how this scientific data is used to analyze the ocean and its far-reaching impacts.

Bringing Science to Life for TCS Students At TCS, students in our science classes will be tracking and recording the drifter buoys’ locations and analyzing the data collected. They will plot coordinates on maps, explore ocean currents, and make connections between the data they collect and global environmental patterns. This interactive project brings abstract science concepts into a tangible experience, encouraging inquiry, problem-solving, and environmental stewardship.

Tonya, wearing bright orange overalls, a life vests, and a hard hat, poses for a photo with the drifting buoy. in this view we mostly see the drogue (folded up tail.) it's a beautiful day with bright blue skies and sparking ocean in the distance. — Me deploying the first drifter buoy.

close up view of the buoy: a round blue ball, with stickers reading TREMONT CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL — Me deploying the first drifter buoy.

Personal Log

Sailing into New Horizons: A Farewell as a NOAA Teacher at Sea

As I sit here reflecting on my time aboard the NOAA research vessel, it’s hard to believe this chapter has come to an end. When I first applied to the NOAA Teacher at Sea program, I knew I would embark on a unique adventure, but I could never have imagined the profound impact this journey would have on me, both as an educator and as a person.

The early mornings watching the sunrise over the open ocean, the long hours of data collection, and the camaraderie of working alongside scientists and crew members—each moment has left an indelible mark. One of the highlights was observing the way oceanographic data is collected in real-time. Deploying CTDs, collecting plankton samples, and witnessing firsthand the vastness of our oceans reinforced the importance of understanding and protecting these ecosystems.

The lessons I’ve learned during this voyage are invaluable. I can’t wait to bring the excitement of real-world science into my classroom, showing my students that science isn’t just something they read about—it’s something they can experience. From tracking ocean currents to analyzing marine species, my students will have the opportunity to become oceanographers themselves, right in the classroom. I know the drifter buoy project, in particular, will captivate their imaginations.

This journey has rekindled my passion for inquiry-based learning and has reminded me that we, as educators, are lifelong learners. I’ve also come to understand the deep responsibility we have to educate the next generation about the importance of our oceans and the need for sustainable practices.

Of course, this experience would not have been possible without the incredible support of NOAA and the crew of the research vessel. Thank you to the scientists who patiently answered my endless questions and to the crew members who made me feel like part of the team. Your dedication to ocean science is inspiring.

As I sail back toward the shores of Maine, I’m filled with excitement for what lies ahead. I look forward to integrating what I’ve learned into my 7th and 8th-grade curriculum, empowering my students to become stewards of the environment. I also hope to encourage more teachers to take part in this incredible program.

Though this chapter is ending, I know it’s just the beginning of a deeper connection with the ocean and its mysteries. As Jacques Cousteau once said, “The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.” And I, for one, am happily caught in that net.

Group photo on the aft deck of the ship. The A frame towers in the background. There are fifteen people in this photo. Tanya is in the center of the front row, wearing her Teacher at Sea shirt and hat. — The Henry B. Bigelow Northeast Ecosystem Monitoring Survey Crew!

Four people stand on the bridge of the ship. In the foreground, Tanya, wearing her Teacher at Sea hat, stands near the control panel and smiles for the photo, while Ensign Remigio stands nearby, looking down. Two other NOAA Corps officers stand at a different control panel in the background but face the camera. — ENS Danielle Remigio (left) teaching me how to drive the ship.

Tanya, wearing orange overalls and a life vest over her Teacher at Sea t-shirt, kneels on one knee near the end of the bongo net. She holds a hose nozzle in her right hand and sprays the net into a bucket. She looks up to smile for the camera. — ENS Danielle Remigio (left) teaching me how to drive the ship.

In the computer lab, Chris and Tonya sit at a desk, both looking at the same computer screen. Tonya extends her right arm to write on a datasheet attached to a clipboard, while her left, resting below, holds an intercom microphone. — Chris Melrose (back), NOAA Research Oceanographer, and me (front) monitoring the CTD.

August 13, 2024August 18, 2024

Tonya Prentice: Getting Ready, August 11, 2024

NOAA Teacher at Sea

Tonya Prentice

Aboard NOAA Ship Henry B. Bigelow

August 8 – August 24, 2024

Mission: Northeast Ecosystem Monitoring Survey

Geographic Area of Cruise: Northeast Atlantic Ocean

Date: August 11, 2024

Weather Data from Newport, RI
Latitude: 41.53036 º N
Longitude: 71.31850º W
Wind Speed: SSW at 8 mph
Air Temperature: 25° Celsius (77° F)

Science and Technology Log

Although our mission has been delayed by few days, there is still plenty of work to be done on board the NOAA Ship Henry B. Bigelow. The deck crew and engineering department have been working hard to prepare for our departure tomorrow morning.

Today, I had the opportunity to tag along with Kate and Patrick, two of our engineers, to learn more about the pre-check work they were completing. “On board ship, it is very important to keep the updated record of the quantity of liquids (in all forms) present in various tanks.” (Marine in Sight)

As part of the pre-check, Kate and Patrick recorded the readings from sensors, then manually checked the level of each fuel, bilge, and ballast water tank in a process known as “sounding” the tanks. They applied Kolor Kut paste to sound tape in the measurement range reported by the sensors and lowered the tape to the bottom of the tank. Upon retrieval, the paste changes color—from light pink to red for fuel and from brown to red for water—indicating the levels.

Kate and Patrick compared these manual measurements with the sensor readings to ensure the sensors were accurately reporting the levels. Then they used a table to convert the measurements to the number of barrels. Soundings are crucial for identifying leakages or losses of fuel, maintaining the ship’s stability, and ensuring that sufficient fuel and water are aboard for the voyage.

two people kneel on the deck of the ship over an open (uncapped) hole. Kate, left, holds a measuring tape reel and turns the crank. Patrick, right, guides the end of the measuring tape into the reel, gripping it with a rag. An open can of pink glue sits nearby. — Kate (left) and Patrick (right) checking the fuel levels.

Two people stand in the engine room. Patrick, right, holds the tape measure reel. Kate, left, guides the end of the tape measure toward something on the wall. — Kate (left) and Patrick (right) checking the fuel levels.

Personal Log

Meet My Roommates! There are so many amazing people aboard NOAA Ship Henry B. Bigelow for this mission. I would like to introduce you to my roommates who were kind enough to let me interview them for my blog and share information about their science career paths.

Karen stands in a field holding a Canada goose under her right arm. She wears a long sleeve shirt, black gloves, and a baseball cap. — Karen Beatty (Animals were handled in accordance with state and federal permits.)

Emma stands one what is probably a boat in a marsh and holds up a snake for a photo. She wears orange fish gloves and a green high visibility vest. — Karen Beatty (Animals were handled in accordance with state and federal permits.)

What is your science degree, and how did you become interested in this field?

Emma Venarde recently graduated from Brown University with a double degree in Environmental Science, focused on Environmental Justice, and Music. Emma has always had a love for nature and became passionate about climate change as a child. She joined the Youth Climate Program and realized that she wanted to better understand human impact and discover ways to help humans and other animals and how they are affected by climate change.

Karen Beatty earned her bachelor’s degree in Zoology from Michigan State University, worked as an environmental consultant for five years, and recently graduated with a master’s in Ecology from Penn State University. Initially, Karen was interested in becoming a veterinarian, but she learned that she preferred working with exotic animals and focusing on their behavioral health. This led her to an interest in becoming a zookeeper but eventually transitioned to wildlife biology. For her master’s, Karen aimed to deepen her quantitative knowledge and understanding of anthropogenic disturbances.

What motivated you to become a NOAA at-sea volunteer?

Last summer, Emma participated in the NOAA Chesapeake Bay Office (NCBO) and decided to apply for another internship opportunity through NOAA student opportunities. She sought more experience in fieldwork, particularly in collecting data and understanding how it’s used for ocean energy. This unique experience aboard the NOAA Ship Henry B. Bigelow is something she wouldn’t typically get, and she’s thrilled to be part of it.

Karen joined this mission as a fellow of the Knauss Fellowship. She believes this fellowship will not only enhance her fieldwork experience, especially in data collection and analysis but will also help her achieve a federal career aligned with conservation and policy development.

What advice would you give my students who are interested in a science career?

Emma: We need more people who are not just good at understanding science but are also able to communicate, collaborate, and think critically.

Karen: Be well-rounded! Interdisciplinary learning is crucial. Having a solid understanding of and skills in math, communication, policy, and regulations is essential to being a successful scientist.

This is our stateroom, also known as a cabin, that we will be sharing for the next two weeks. It’s a cozy space designed for practicality, consisting of four bunks, a small office area, lockers for our personal belongings, and a bathroom with a shower. While the quarters are tight, it’s amazing how efficiently everything is arranged to make life at sea as comfortable as possible. We’ve settled in nicely, and this space will be our little home away from home as we embark on this exciting mission aboard the NOAA Ship Henry B. Bigelow.

view of lockers in stateroom; we can see survival suits and life preservers stacked on top — Lockers

view of a small desk, with a computer monitor, next to a locker. — Lockers

Did You Know?

Scup, also known as porgy, “can live a relatively long time, up to about 20 years.” (NOAA Fisheries)

Scup enjoying a snack alongside the NOAA Ship Henry B. Bigelow.

August 17, 2023August 18, 2023

Gail Tang: Contemplating the Enormity of the Minuscule, August 14, 2023

NOAA Teacher at Sea

Gail Tang

Aboard NOAA Ship Oscar Elton Sette

August 4, 2023 – September 1, 2023

Mission: Hawaiian Islands Cetacean and Ecosystem Assessment Survey (HICEAS)

Geographic Area of Cruise: Hawaiian archipelago

Date: Tuesday August 8, 2023

Weather Data from the Bridge

Temperature: 27.06° C

Latitude: 29°53’0” N

Longitude; 174°24’0”W

Science and Technology Log with Career Highlights

Previously, I wrote about the day-time operations focused on surveying whales, dolphins, and birds. Through the 25-powered binoculars (big eyes), the large mammals in the distance look microscopic. Now, the sun has set and I take us underwater to learn about the tiny world of ichthyoplankton, magnified to reveal intricate details of their exquisite structures.

Weather permitting, Nich Sucher (Survey Technician) works with the deck crew to deploy the CTD, which measures conductivity, temperature, and depth. This information is used to help scientists understand the physical, chemical, and biological changes of the ocean to help inform them of environmental changes. For example, Nich explained that data from CTDs are used to better understand why tuna were migrating away from Hawaii and towards California. The data can help answer whether the tuna are moving north for access to more oxygen in the water or for cooler temperatures. On our project, we deploy the CTD down to 1000m because that is where some of our deep diving cetacean species feed. Also, the temperature & pressure affects how sound travels through the water. This information can be used to calculate the speed of sound at different depths.

a view down the starboard rail of NOAA Ship Oscar Elton Sette. We see Logan, wearing a hard hat and life vest and facing away from us, lean his right arm over the rail. He looks down at the water as the CTD apparatus descends below the purple-blue surface of the water. In the distance, the sun has just set over the horizon, leaving orange, yellow, pink, purple skies dotted with a few scattered clouds. — Logan Gary (Able-bodied Seaman) deploys the CTD at sunset. Photo Credit: Gail Tang

Nich wanted to work for NOAA since he was in middle school! In high school he fell in love with fish. Initially he went to college in Iowa for soccer and then transferred to Carthage College, in Kenosha, Wisconsin to study environmental science, conservation and ecology. Nich did an independent study with his aquatic ecology professor on a coral reef project in Roatan, Hondurus. His senior thesis investigated the feasibility of releasing captive-bred axolotl (an adorable salamander that’s critically endangered and possibly extinct in nature) into the wild. After college, he had a job at an aquarium, and while he temped at US Fish and Wildlife studying chub and salmon, NOAA reached out about his job application. He started in January 2022 on the NOAA Ship Oscar Elton Sette!

Nich, wearing a hard hat, life vest, and an illuminated flashlight attached to his vest, looks straight at the camera as he holds up with both hands a styrofoam head decorated with marker designs and compressed (by water pressure) from its original size. — Nich Sucher (Survey Technician) with recently pressure-shrunken styrofoam head. Photo Credit: Fionna Matheson (Commanding Officer)

Since the CTD is deployed to 1000m, a common extracurricular activity is to attach styrofoam objects to the instrument because they shrink as a result of the pressure! On a previous leg, Commanding Officer Fionna Matheson shrunk a styrofoam head, which can be seen in the picture of Nich above. A few of us shrunk decorated styrofoam cups.

photo of a hand holding up a full-size styrofoam cup, upside down. it's decorated with many triangles drawn in black marker. the rim of the cup reads HICEAS 2023. we can see a view of a deck beyond. — Regular-sized styrofoam cup with Sierpiński’s Triangle Design

photo of a hand holding up a compressed styrofoam cup, upside down. it's decorated with many triangles drawn in black marker. the rim of the cup reads HICEAS 2023. we can see a view of a lab beyond. — Regular-sized styrofoam cup with Sierpiński’s Triangle Design

a hand holds up a stack of four upside-down compressed styrofoam cups, decorated, top to bottom, as purple design, smiley face, triangles, orca with hearts. — Artist of the cup from top to bottom: Jennifer McCullough (Lead Acoustician), Erik Norris (Acoustician), Gail Tang (Teacher at Sea), Alexa Gonzalez (Acoustician). Photo Credit: Gail Tang

The whole process of the CTD deployment and retrieval takes about an hour to an hour and a half. The Isaacs-Kidd Midwater Trawl (IKMT) net tow usually follows. Jessie Perelman and Dre Schmidt are the plankton researchers on board this leg of HICEAS. Most nights, we do 2-3 tows of the net. (They are affectionately called a “tow-yo” because the net gets towed in and out several times.) They use an inclinometer, a.k.a. angled angle, to measure the angle of the line (see picture below) and then confer with a chart to determine the length of the line needed to reach the desired depth. The chart is a good way to avoid on-the-spot trigonometric calculations. But it’s a good exercise to ask yourself anyway: if you know the desired depth and the angle, how would you calculate the length of the line needed?

Dre stands on deck at night, facing away from the camera, over the rail. She wears a jacket, a life vest, and a hard hat. Beyond her, we see a davit arm leaning over the water and a cable (attached to the net) extending at an angle off to the right. With her right arm, Dre holds out an angled angle - it's a metal semicircle, like a protractor, with a swinging arm attached at the center point of the straight edge. Dre holds it by a handle, lining the straight edge parallel to the extended cable. The swinging arm hangs straight down to the ship. Dre can read the resulting angle in the markings on the semicircle. — Dre Schmidt measuring with the angled angle. Photo Credit: Gail Tang

After the tows, we bring the larvae into the wet lab and the fun begins. The goal is to sort out the fish larvae from the other larvae. Truthfully, I am not very good at sorting the fish and I just like to look at the organisms under the microscope. The most awe-inspiring creatures I saw under the scope were the shelled pteropods (sea butterflies) and a juvenile sea star that, according to Dre, may have recently morphed from the larval stage. With the naked eye, they look like marks made with a sharp pencil, but under the scope, the enormity of their existence is profoundly moving. While I could not capture these beauties in a photograph, I was able to capture other creatures.

view through a microscope of a phronima animal living inside a (clear, jelly-like) salp. — Phromina living inside a salp. Photo Credit: Gail Tang

view through a microscope of a tiny squid and a polycheate worm. — Phromina living inside a salp. Photo Credit: Gail Tang

view through a microscope of a tiny squid surrounded by other, unidentified organisms. the squid's large purple eyes stand out. — Squid

Personal/Food Log with Career Highlights

As I fall into a daily routine, I periodically need small bits of irregularity for stimulation. This week, I was privileged enough to work with Chef Chris. Chef Chris is originally from north Philadelphia. In the absence of cable during childhood, he watched cooking shows like Yan Can Cook, Frugal Gourmet, and Julia Child on PBS. He started off cooking on NOAA Ship Rainier and now is the Chief Steward on NOAA Ship Oscar Elton Sette. We collaborated to make some pork dumplings and vegetable spring rolls for everyone. I cook at home often, but not for so many people, so Chris was essential in helping me scale up the dishes. We bonded over not measuring out ingredients so here is approximately the two recipes we used.

Chris, wearing a black chef's cap, stands at a large fryer in the galley. he's cooking three foods - eggs, pork, onions in large piles - and he reaches toward them with a spatula or perhaps a large knife. — Chief Steward Christopher Williams cooking the eggroll fillings. Photo Credit: Gail Tang

Pork Dumpling Filling

5 lbs of ground pork (when my mom makes these, we use a mix of lean ground pork and fatty ground pork)
Mirin (I use Shaioxing wine, but mirin is a good substitute!)
Soy sauce (we used Kikkoman; I like to use Pearl River Bridge Light Soy)
Green onions
Sugar

a plateful of prepared (but not yet friend) pork dumplings — The most gorgeous dumplings

a cafeteria-style pan of perfectly fried pork dumplings — The most gorgeous dumplings

Egg Roll Filling

Green cabbage
Red Cabbage
Carrots
Mushrooms
Soy sauce
Hoisin

a sheet pan of about 30 wrapped but uncooked egg rolls — Freshly wrapped vegetarian egg rolls

a cafeteria style pan of fried egg rolls — Freshly wrapped vegetarian egg rolls

Several of us worked together to help fold the dumplings and egg rolls. I delighted in the number of different hands that contributed to feeding our community. Chef Chris expertly cooked everything and it was all gobbled up!

Chris and Gail, sitting across from one another at a table, each hold up a freshly-rolled dumping to show off. we can see a large metal bowl of pork filling on the table between them. — Chef Chris Williams and Gail Tang

Four people around a table in the mess with a plate full of wrapped dumplings and dough circles and a bowl of pork filling. — Chef Chris Williams and Gail Tang

four people around a table wrapping egg rolls; there's a large bowl of filling, a tray of completed rolls, and two rolls in progress. — Gail Tang, Octavio De Mena, Jamie Delgado, Jessie Perelman rolling eggrolls

At night, I assist Jessie Perelman and Dre Schimdt with their plankton research. They were the first to come by to help fold dumplings. Jessie did her undergraduate work in biological science at University of Southern California (USC) with a plan to go to veterinary school. She worked in a marine science lab at USC, and then studied abroad in Australia to take more marine biology classes not available at USC. After she graduated, she got a job as research assistant at Wood’s Hole Oceanographic Institution, where she solidified her passion for research. She applied for graduate school and ended up at the University of Hawaii studying biological oceanography. Her dissertation focused on oceanographic influences on mesopelagic communities across eastern Pacific Ocean using insights from active acoustics, nets, and other sampling techniques. An interesting interdisciplinary part of her background includes learning about international policy on issues like deep sea mining. The international meetings with delegates were very informative for her. She’s also worked on science communication writing, such as science blogging. In Fall 2022, Jessie started as a Marine Ecosystem Research Analyst at NOAA!

Dre Schmidt received her bachelors in biology at Florida State University. She took Calculus, Mathematical Modeling for Biology, Analysis and Statistical Design, and Physics to supplement her biology degree. She volunteered at a research lab on campus and after college, took a couple of years off to work in marine science education for 5th grade to college level students. She went for her master’s degree in Kiel, Germany to study physiological effects of low-level warming on coral and their larvae. She has been at NOAA for 2 years, first as a research associate and now as an essential fish habitat coordinator. What she loves about her job is the variety of responsibilities. She keeps busy by sorting plankton, doing genetics lab work, analyzing data in R, writing up results, and going to sea! Engaging in these different tasks help to activate different parts of the brain, which I can totally relate to! Her advice to students is to know your worth and ask for what you deserve. Her favorite fish larva is the very ugly Centrobranchus andreae simply because her name is found within the name of the organism. I can’t blame her because my favorite flower is the Gaillardia for the same reason.

Andrea, wearing a mask, stands for a photo in front of a screen displaying a larval fish — Andrea with Andrea

Matt Benes (Able-bodied Seaman and Deck Boss) took a break in his duties to fold some dumplings with us. Though Matt declined to be interviewed, I can tell you we share a deep appreciation for food as a mechanism for cultural, historical, and political understanding.

Jamie Delgado (Medical Officer) joined in on the egg roll wrapping. Jamie received her bachelor’s in science and nursing at Rutgers University. She joined the Public Health Service (PHS), and worked at the Indian Health Service (IHS) in northern Arizona. Later, she worked at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) as a research nurse specialist. Jamie earned her Doctor of Nursing at University of Maryland before coming to NOAA as ship medical officer. Jamie has so much good financial advice about scholarships and loan repayments programs. Check out these links to learn more:

She also shared that you can retire in a total of 20 years with uniformed services, you get a pension, healthcare benefits, a housing allowance, a food allowance, 30 days paid leave, and unlimited sick leave. Jamie has been in service for 10 years, and with NOAA for 1 year and 5 months.

Jamie also helped me out during our in-port during Leg 1. Snorkeling had dislodged some ear wax and clogged my ear for a couple of days making daily life really uncomfortable. Jason Dlugos’s (3rd Assistant Engineer) “ear beer” helped, but I was still off balance. Jamie had to endure the task of flushing my ear out over the course of two days. Eventually, I did have to go to urgent care to get the rest out. Now I’m 100%!

Last but never least, Octavio De Mena, a.k.a OC, (General Vessel Assistant in the Deck Department) came by to roll some egg rolls. He is originally from the Republic of Panama and loves classic rock music. While we have no intersection in our movie tastes, we share some similarities in the food we ate growing up due to the large Chinese population in Panama. According to the Harvard Review of Latin America, the first Chinese immigrants arrived in Panama in 1854 to build the Trans-Isthmian Railroad. The inhumane treatment and disregard for the workers’ welfare is reminiscent of the situation a decade later with the Transcontinental Railway in the United States. This convergence of cultures led to haw flakes and dried plums in both our childhoods!

OC was an aircraft mechanic in the military reserves, and a security contractor in Latin America. He decided to come back to the U.S. to fulfill his dream job as a professional mariner. On his journey in pursuing his dream, he volunteered for the civil air patrol, and served as an auxiliary for search and rescue flying small Cessnas. He saw a NOAA ship at this job which prompted a search for a position within NOAA. He has been on the NOAA Ship Oscar Elton Sette since February 2023. On the ship, OC and I are regulars in the forward mess. Sometimes having opposite tastes works out in your f(l)avor, as I get to eat OC’s tomatoes and watermelon jolly ranchers.

Did you know?

You can track us! Visit this site to see where we currently are: https://www.windy.com/station/ship-wtee?26.549,-172.551,5

January 10, 2023January 11, 2023

Maronda Hastie: Depart Cape Canaveral & Student Interviews, August 31, 2022

NOAA Teacher at Sea

Maronda Hastie

Aboard NOAA Ship Oregon II

August 28 – September 14, 2022

Date: Wednesday, August 31 – Thursday, September 12, 2022

Mission: Shark/Red Snapper Bottom Longline Survey

Geographic Area of Cruise: Gulf of Mexico

Weather Data:

Lows/Highs = 75 degrees – 90 degrees Fahrenheit
Wave Height = 1’6″ – 1’8″ Northeast
Wind Speed = 6.2 mph
Humidity = 77%
Barometric Pressure = 29.97″ HG
Sky = Partly Cloudy & Scattered Showers

Fisherman Josh Cooper caught a Wahoo.
Volunteer Jade Salis poses during the safety drill.
This suit is so big on me! My fingers look swollen!
I will see Jade before she goes to bed since our work schedules are opposite (12am-12pm vs 12pm-12am)
Fisheries Biologist Jim Patterson answers questions from students at McNair High.
Senior Research Associate Heather Moncrief-Cox shares her experiences with the students at McNair High School.
Amazing sunrises & sunsets every day!
Maronda’s silhouette at sunset.

Now that we have departed Cape Canaveral, I’m enjoying the Florida coastline! It didn’t take long for Fisherman Josh Cooper to catch a Wahoo. He must have read my mind about plans for dinner.

Science Log

On Wednesday, August 31, 2022, NOAA Ship Oregon II departed Cape Canaveral and started a path along the Florida coastline headed to the Gulf of Mexico. All of us took another Covid-19 test before departure to keep everyone safe. We had to wait for 17,000 gallons of diesel fuel to load the vessel. I was surprised about the amount of fuel needed for our journey! Although my shift begins at 12pm, I have time to get adjusted since we haven’t made it to the 1st location. I included my students in the interviews with several shipmates. Heather Moncrief-Cox, Senior Research Associate, and Jim Patterson, Fisheries Biologist, sat with me while I logged into Google Meet during my 9th grade Algebra Math class. They seemed happy to answer the questions shown below and were patient with the students. Mrs. Ashanti Raymond, teacher at McNair High School, did an excellent job monitoring the students working while they took their turn asking questions in front of the screen.

On Thursday, September 1, 2022, the students from my Coordinate Algebra & Pre-Calculus classes interviewed Chuck Godwin, Lead Fisherman, and Collin Lynch, Chief Electronics Technician. Their careers & lives are quite interesting! We found out more information about the logistics of fisheries surveys, different careers, education & certifications. I appreciate them taking the time to talk to us! This experience helps me and others understand the purpose of research, safety rules, and how everyone’s part is important!

Table titled: Interview Questions for Teacher at Sea Program: Chuck Godwin, Jim Patterson, or Heather Moncrief-Cox. Table includes 18 questions, such as "When did you realize you wanted to pursue a career in science or an ocean career?" and "What are your normal job duties?" — **Interview Question suggestions for the students at McNair High School**

The carousel of pictures was taken while students logged into Google Meet to interview my shipmates. Many of the students took notes & emailed me their summary.

A slide titled "Interview with Heather Moncrief-Cox: Senior Research Associate Aboard NOAA Ship Oregon II." It features three images: two screenshots of students in a classroom looking at the camera, and one of Heather and Maronda sitting together in a room on the ship. Large speech bubbles containing quotes point to Heather.

McNair High Students Interview Jim Patterson, NOAA Fisheries Biologist aboard NOAA Ship Oregon II:

What was your most memorable moment at sea?

While I was doing my job a sperm whale came up from the water! It rolled over to the point where you could see its eye and we just stared at each other. It was so remarkable to me that I forgot to turn on my camera.

How does being at sea affect your family life?

I don’t have my own family so therefore that’s not a problem for me. I talk to and meet new amazing people all the time.

What advice can you give students?

Do whatever you are interested in and the work you do in the end will all be worth it! You’ll be happy that you did it.

What is rewarding about your job?

There’s so much that I’ve discovered over the years and new things that I’ve learned. The experience also is something that’s worth it, along with the view of the ocean and sights of the creatures.

How are environmental issues related to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math)?

STEAM applies to just about everything in life.

McNair High Students of Dekalb County, Georgia, interview Chuck Godwin, NOAA Lead Fisherman:

What certificates or degrees do you have?

I have a Wildlife Management Ecology degree and Multi-Management Certification.

How does your job affect your family?

When my kids were younger this would affect them because I would be gone 2 weeks to 2 months. They are grown now so not so much.

What was your most memorable moment at sea?

We caught a 27 foot basking shark.

What are some of the rewards with your job?

I like the long-lasting friendships and my shipmates are like a second family to me.

What are you looking forward to aboard NOAA Ship Oregon II?

I’m hoping to catch a record-winning great white shark.

Why is your research important?

I protect species and keep them going. I make sure they are okay.

Heather Moncrief-Cox: Senior Research Associate

McNair High Students of Dekalb County, Georgia, Interview Heather Moncrief-Cox, NOAA Senior Research Associate:

When did you realize you wanted to pursue a career in science or ocean care?

I’ve always wanted to do this ever since 3rd grade when I dressed up as a Marine Biologist. At 13, I started shark diving.

Why is your research important?

It’s important to do research because it allows you to learn information you might not have known before. You can also gather evidence or proof to contribute to the information you learned.

Heather makes sure data is recorded and tissue samples are stored properly for later research.

On Friday, September 2nd, 2022, the students in my Analytic Geometry class interviewed Fisherman Josh Cooper. He was very helpful with different positions on the deck. He explained his life at sea & talked about some of the fish he recently caught. Later during the week, he prepared ceviche for everyone with the fresh catch of the day.

Josh Cooper: Fisherman
Colin Lynch: Chief Electronics Technician

McNair High Students of Dekalb County, Georgia, interview Josh Cooper: NOAA Fisherman

What are your normal duties?

I maintain the deck, catch fish, and work where I’m needed.

McNair High Students of Dekalb County, Georgia, interview Colin Lynch: NOAA Chief Electronics Technician

How does your job affect your social life?

You have to know what you are getting into. I’ve been on the vessel for about 2 months. It’s a challenge and it’s all about knowing how to manage your time. NOAA is really good about giving time off.

On Thursday, September 8th, 2022, I interviewed my supervisor Trey Driggers & Fisherman Chris Love. I was able to use a Voice Recorder APP & my phone to capture the moments. Trey was very detailed with explaining the purpose of collecting the data & helped me increase my marine life vocabulary. Chris shared lots of sunrise pictures & we often compared photos between shifts.

Trey Driggers: Research Fishery Biologist
Chris Love: Seaman/Fisherman
Chris Love: Seaman/Fisherman

McNair High Math Teacher of Dekalb County, Georgia, Interviews Trey Driggers: Supervisor and Chief Scientist:

“We collect otoliths (inner ear bones) from bony fish species that help the fish navigate near reefs. Then we send the samples to the Panama City Lab to determine the age of the fish. They compare the age & length to see how fast they grow.”

How do you keep the bait organized?

You have to go in order so the lines don’t get crossed. We put a total of 50 hooks with bait in each barrel. The last one in is the first one out. Make sure you put the hooks in the Mackerel bait twice to be more secure. Sometimes you’ll get pieces of the bait back or none at all. If we’re lucky, then we’ll catch a few fish. The numbers on the hooks help us stay organized too.

McNair High Math Teacher of Dekalb County, Georgia, Interviews Chris Love: NOAA Able-Bodied Seaman/Fisherman:

What challenges do you face?

Being away from home. Sometimes you miss out on things. If you play around and don’t pay attention, then you can get seriously hurt.

Do you have any memorable moments?

You get to go to different places and experience things away from home. You meet new people on the ships and ports you visit.

On Friday, September 9th, 2022, my students interviewed Lieutenant Commander, Aaron Colohan. He has a lot of responsibilities & made sure we were safe on the ship. He has a large budget of 1.2 million dollars with many factors to consider.

Aaron Colohan: Lieutenant Commander
Aaron Colohan: Lieutenant Commander

McNair High Students of Dekalb County, Georgia, interview Aaron Colohan, NOAA Lieutenant Commander:

What are some rewards you get from your job?

I believe in what I’m doing. My reward is doing something for my country, the world, and the planet. This is an opportunity to work outside of the military for public good.

I have to work with 23-30 people a day and make sure they are happy in their environment along with me. I make sure they are well fed and safe with a $1.2 million budget.

On Monday, September 12th, 2022, I interviewed James McDade, Junior Engineer. I had to use ear plugs because the noise level is very loud on the bottom of the ship where the engine & equipment is located. It was very hot & the space was tight.

James McDade: Junior Engineer
James McDade: Junior Engineer

McNair High Math Teacher of Dekalb County, Georgia, Interviews James McDade: NOAA Junior Engineer:

What made you choose this career?

I got lucky because I was supposed to only work for 60 days, but I was offered a permanent position over 20 years ago. I had no idea. I’ve been able to travel and see beautiful places all around the Hawaiian Islands.

What challenges do you face?

What I do is maintenance. If anything breaks down, I repair it. I check the refrigeration, water leaks, engines, change filters, and pipe system. Before, it was easy to save money while at sea, but now due to online services I spend more.

Can you describe a memorable moment?

When I worked in Hawaii it was fun going to all the different islands and meeting new people. I also visited Taipan China & Guam. I enjoyed having fun in those places. The atmosphere is nice with everyone getting along.

Do you need a degree or certification for your career?

Yes, I went to training at SIU Piney Point Maryland. That’s where I picked up my last endorsement. I need one more license to be an official engineer. I have to study on my own & take the test.

What advice would you give students?

Check out the different careers. Keep a clean record because you are dealing with the government. You want to make sure you can travel, get a passport so you can see the world. I would also say learn how to work with people. You don’t have to like everybody but be respectful & know how to work together.

Personal Log

I am glad we are on our way to the Gulf of Mexico! The shoreline is gorgeous & the skyline is ever changing into patterns of colorful art. Soon I will no longer see land & view the ever-changing skyline. I’m excited that I get to share this experience with my students & colleagues while sailing. My shipmates work well together & are willing to pitch in wherever they are needed.