Industry Role Models

OUR GALLERY OF

Kyryn Swanson

LOCATION

Eastern Passage, Nova Scotia

EDUCATION

BA Candidate, Biology

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

Pisces Research Project Management Inc.

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Research & Development

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

Supporting the development of the Ocean Allies program has been a huge milestone for me, to go from DEI&A being a personal passion to something I get to help advocate for and showcase in all of the work I do.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

The ocean sector is full of amazing people and as we continue to build our inclusive and equitable practices, the ocean community only becomes an even better place for everyone, regardless of their lived experiences. I hope that role models such as myself and my peers can show you just how diverse the ocean sector is, and how important our diverse perspectives are in creating a positive and world-changing innovation ecosystem and impact on the oceans.

Amanda Horn

LOCATION

Burlington, ON, Canada

EDUCATION

B.A Communications & French McMaster University

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

Loless Blue Beauty

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Private Sector

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

I think that it was when I consciously decided that it was possible for me to make scuba diving and the ocean my life as a marketer, and decided to take that desire seriously. I have been relentlessly pursuing that path as it connected me back to my purpose, my strengths and challenges through ocean literacy, brand building and scuba diving. It is a consistent reminder of the resilience, curiosity, and creative possibility of designing your life in any way that you want. The sum of my experiences has led me to this and continues to inspire all aspects of my personal and professional life.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Own your identity and share your passion with the world. When you lead with telling your story and lean into creativity and curiosity, it makes it easier to build authentic connections and relationships. No matter what stage of career, background or industry you are from, your story and voice are valuable and have something to offer a conversation. Don’t be afraid to ask for someone’s time, and know that by showing up and asking for them to share, you are also making an impact on them.

Sarah Thomas

LOCATION

Vancouver, BC, Canada

EDUCATION

MBA (Master of Business Administration

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

Clear Seas

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Nonprofit

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

Creating the Clear Seas Indigenous Internship Program in partnership with MITACS and BCIT. Indigenous post secondary students, and Indigenous learners are leading research projects in their own communities using Traditional Knowledge and western science. We are entering our third year of this program and I am seeing the impact it is having on the students, and the First Nation Communities they are working in. It is inspiring to see the passion come out in the student’s projects and know they are helping build capacity in the communities.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Build a supportive network. Talk to people, share your story, and listen to others.

Flora Salvo

LOCATION

Dartmouth, NS, Canada

EDUCATION

PhD

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

Merinov

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Nonprofit / Research

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

Keeping working in the sector and advising on more sure sustainable aquaculture.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

This sector is moving fast but you need to ride with the tide.

Tara Mascarenhas

LOCATION

Chelsea, QB, Canada

EDUCATION

BA Honours (distinction), University of Leeds, UK

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

SOI Foundation

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Nonprofit

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

I am living proof that you can teach an old dog new tricks! Seven years ago, I was new to the ocean sector and indeed new to Canada. Since then, I have led the programming team for SOI’s flagship Canada 150 project – a sail around the longest coastline in the world over 150 days focused on profiling Canada’s peoples and places and exploring themes of national unity. I now manage SOI’s Blue Futures Pathways, a program to engage young people aged 14-30 in the opportunities offered by the Sustainable Blue Economy. These are both fantastic examples of what can be achieved with vision, passion and a strong, collaborative team at the helm.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Prejudice dissipates through exposure. Under-represented people gain confidence when they see others like them in roles they aspire to. There’s enough work to do in this sector and enough room for everyone – especially in Canada. I always say to my self, if not you, who? If not now, when?

Jacqueline Thompson

LOCATION

Regina, SK, Canada

EDUCATION

Bachelor’s Business Administration

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

Ocean Wise

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Nonprofit

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

In 2014 I initiated and supervised an international youth exchange program in my home territory of oskana kâ-asastêki, Regina, Saskatchewan, Treaty 4 Territory. A goal I had as a program alumna since 2001. I participated in the Canada World Youth 2000-2001 Athabasca AB, and Barciany Poland, and always wanted to see a program like with my Nakota & Cree nations.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

I always encourage relationship building and connections. Don’t be afraid to tell a friend, relative or role, “You’re doing something I appreciate, can we chat sometime!” One of the strongest inter generational memories we maintain is our ability to pass knowledge from generation to the next. It is intrinsic for us to help each other and lift each other up!

Alexa Reedman

LOCATION

Ottawa, ON, Canada

EDUCATION

Management and Science

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

ArcticNet

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Nonprofit

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

The creation and implementation of the Inuit Qaujisarnirmut Pilirijjutit (IQP), which is Inuktitut for “Inuit Research Program” with the Inuit Research Management Committee (IRMC). The IQP is the first and only Inuit-led, directed and governed research program in the world. It has been noted as a best practice for Indigenous-led research globally, and in particular has highlighted Canada on the international stage. I’m very honoured and proud to be a part of this exciting initiative that is led by the four Inuit regions (Inuvialuit Settlement Region (ISR), Nunavut, Nunavik, and Nunatsiavut).

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Find a mentor. There are a number of engaged and wonderful people that are keen to support you. Look at the list of role models (reach out to me if you’d like – even if you aren’t keen for me to be your mentor, I am happy to help find you a suitable one) and other leaders in the space. Many, many people are keen to uplift early career professionals and connect you with our broad networks. Apply to jobs you don’t think you’re qualified for. Write passionate cover letters. I remember those things and other hiring managers do as well.

Barry Stevens

LOCATION

Mahone Bay, NS, Canada

EDUCATION

Electronic Engineering/ International Business & Marketing

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

3D Wave Design/Stevens Solutions & Design Inc.

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Academic/Research

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

When I set with the quiet of myself and reflect on my lifelong career I am content. Life has allowed me to contribute to projects and initiatives that are generally net positive.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Get involved! If you do not see representation in your field, be the representation for others to be inspired by. Network. Whether it is through work, volunteering or extracurricular activities, connect with others in your field and continue to foster those connections throughout your career. Surround yourself with mentors and colleagues that lift you up. Stay inspired and inspire others, and always fight for what you believe in.

Julia Baak

LOCATION

Montreal, QB, Canada

EDUCATION

BSc Honours in Environmental Sciences, MSc in Biology

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

McGill University / Canadian Wildlife Service, Environment and Climate Change Canada

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Academic/Research

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

Achieving my dream job, especially at this early stage of my career. Ever since I started working in the ocean sector (as a research assistant during my undergraduate degree), my dream was to become a biologist for the Canadian Wildlife Service. Now I’m here, with the opportunity to work alongside a brilliant, diverse team to continue fighting for the conservation of marine wildlife.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Haley Flaro

LOCATION

Fredericton, NB, Canada

EDUCATION

BA, Sociology

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

Ability New Brunswick

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Nonprofit

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

25 years in the non-profit sector working with equity deserving groups.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Highlight your abilities and talents

Shen Molloy

LOCATION

Halifax, NS, Canada

EDUCATION

MSc. Resource & Environmental Management

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

Fisheries and Oceans Canada

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Research & Development

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

I am the first author of two journal articles!! My graduate research examined single-use plastic mitigation and legislation in Atlantic Canada, specifically looking into the effectiveness of provincial plastic bag bans. This research was published in the Journal of Sustainability. After my Master’s degree, I conducted further single-use plastic research exploring reduction strategies for food services across Nova Scotia during COVID-19. This was published in the Journal of Sustainable Production and Consumption.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

I’m still seeking that advice myself! But what I’ve found helpful is staying organized and up-to-date with who you are connecting with, whether that’s professors, supervisors, or even colleagues. You never know what opportunities can come your way just because someone knows you!

Lisa Chen

LOCATION

Milton, ON, Canada

EDUCATION

MSc Marine Management

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

Oceanic Impact

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Academia, Research, Technology Development, Education, and Fisheries

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

I am proud that I did not pursue a traditional career path as expected by those of Asian heritage or those in academia. I think my diverse experience working in different countries/sectors help me shape a holistic understanding of different ocean issues and develop the skillsets needed to tackle them.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Find a mentor or champion that will guide you through some difficult moments of your career. Don’t give up! You will land your dream job! 🙂

Moronke Harris

LOCATION

Victoria, BC, Canada

EDUCATION

BSc Biology, Certificate GIS & pursuing Graduate studies in oceanography

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

University of Victoria

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Academia & Research

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

Publishing my first journal article with Dr. Yvonne Sawall of the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences. Next step, my first first-author paper!

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Try, try, and try again. It is cliché but I have truly found that when one door closes another always opens. Be prepared to take advantage of any possibility that comes your way. Go after internships and research assistantships if you have the opportunity to. Do not rely solely on academic averages, the experience is priceless. Personalize your applications and apply for things you may not think you are fully qualified for – you may surprise yourself or end up improving your skills for next time! Additionally, do not be afraid to ask for help, or to ask others that you look up to how they got where they are. In my experience professionals are happy to advise those at earlier stages in their career. Without that wonderful support network, I would not be where I am.

Leah Lewis-McCrea

LOCATION

Dartmouth, NS, Canada

EDUCATION

MSc Biology

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

Center for Marine Applied Research

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Aquaculture Research & Development

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

My current position – honestly is my dream job. 100% of the work is directly applied to support sustainable development of our ocean resources in Nova Scotia; creating jobs and new technologies. Working with a diverse (i.e., gender, age, ethnicity, and education backgrounds) team in a honest and cooperative manner producing high quality, science-based evidence.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Be openminded. People no longer have one or two careers in their lifetime. Any opportunity can provide connections and knowledge that can be beneficial in the advancement of a career.

Jennifer Jackson

LOCATION

Victoria, BC, Canada

EDUCATION

PhD in Physical Oceanography from UBC

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

Hakai Institute

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Research & Development

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

I think my greatest achievement is that I am an ocean scientist and also a single Mom of 2 amazing kids.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Find a good mentor and advocate who will give you support. It is still very difficult to be taken seriously as an underrepresented person in ocean science.

Khushboo Jhugroo

LOCATION

Vancouver, BC, Canada

EDUCATION

BSc in Oceanography & Marine Biology, MSc in Physical Oceanography, PhD in Physical Oceanography

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

Hakai Institute & University of British Columbia

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Academia & Research

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

Completing a PhD in a foreign country in the midst of a global pandemic

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Follow your passion. Success is achieved when you know how passionate you are about the ocean (be it in any sector). You may have a special connection or you may learn how to develop that passion, and it may also evolve over time. Recognise the hurdles you have to overcome – you grow through each of them. It’s rewarding to find a solution to solve a problem and then find ways to scale it so others having similar problems can solve theirs too.

Hasini Basnayake

LOCATION

Vancouver, BC, Canada

EDUCATION

Masters in Resource and Environmental Management at Simon Fraser University BSc in Oceanography & Marine Biology, MSc in Physical Oceanography, PhD in Physical Oceanography

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

Aquaculture Data Coordinator at Fisheries and Oceans Canada

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Fisheries / Aquaculture

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

My research in blue carbon in coastal environments in British Columbia is possibly my most impactful achievement to date. Blue carbon is a relatively new concept and for the most part, remains unexamined in the Pacific Northwest. My master’s thesis quantifies the potential blue carbon accumulation and storage in tidal salt marshes in British Columbia to estimate its role as a net carbon sink. Carbon sinks absorb and store carbon from the atmosphere for long periods of time and is a nature-based solution to curb carbon emissions and associated global warming.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

My word of advice to underrepresented people looking to start a career in the ocean sector is – it is OK to be the only woman in the room, it is OK to be the only person of color in the room, because that means you are setting a precedent for generations to come. Passion for the environment exceeds boundaries of skin color and place of origin. Keep pushing for what you believe in.

Alexa Goodman

LOCATION

Halifax, NS, Canada

EDUCATION

Master of Marine Management (MMM); BSc. Marine Biology & Environmental Sustainability and Society

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

Training Program Manager, MEOPAR, Marine Researcher & Consultant, Consulting

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Fisheries / Aquaculture

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

“Raising the profile of issues linked to abandoned, lost, and discarded fishing gear (ghost gear) by mobilizing 4 years of my novel research to form applied solutions and share this knowledge with other key stake and rights holders to carry out localized solutions in their region has been a bright spot in my career as an Early Career Ocean Professional so far. I successfully developed a half-million dollar ghost gear project using this knowledge, and have published 3 papers on the topic, and have been featured in several media articles, news interview and documentaries.

Beyond science, I am passionate about community and mentorship, and helping folks be the best versions of themselves, professionally and personally. This lead to the creation of a 2 year campaign called ‘Stop Trashing It’, which was designed and operated as a non-profit, that aimed to shift awareness into action when it comes to living lighter on our planet, with a focus on waste reduction. The project grew rapidly, building a network of ~1500 individuals in just over a year. While the organization has since dissolved, the project was a great success and a dear achievement in my career.

Recognition is great evidence of my success; I have received several environmental leadership awards for this initiative, as well as my passion for youth mentorship and science communication. “

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Don’t be afraid to ask those you trust for advice or help. Be authentically yourself, and look for a mentor who inspires you and is in a position that you aspire to be in. If you have an idea that you believe in, do not give up on it. Find the people that will support you and move in that direction. Don’t let the fear of failure keep you from exploring your interests. After all, a FAIL is a First Attempt In Learning 🙂

Becky Segal

LOCATION

Courtenay, BC, Canada

EDUCATION

MSc Geography, University of Victoria; BSc Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Victoria

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

SmartICE & The Arctic Eider Society

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Social Enterprise & Nonprofit

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

Developing good relationships with Inuit colleagues in support of sea ice safety! In particular, making satellite imagery products easier for northern Inuit communities to access.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Go for it! Talk to a few people doing work that inspires you, and learn about how they got to where they are today. Seek out opportunities to find a mentor. If you’re young, search for grants or funding that supports training you and hiring you (or your business) – if you bring this to a potential supervisor, it really shows that you’re interested!

Emily Charry Tissier

LOCATION

Rimouski, QC, Canada

EDUCATION

MSc Biology

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

Whale Seeker

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Research & Development

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

Creating a successful solution for all ocean stakeholders while maintaining a high ethical and technical standard – and out B Corp certification. Our amazing team made this all happen so I am deeply thankful for them as well.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

There are tremendous groups that can help no matter where you are in your journey. Reach out to an ocean accelerator or contact a founder of an ocean startup you respect to get advice.

Rex Holwell Jr.

LOCATION

Nain, NL, Canada

EDUCATION

College Diploma

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

SmartICE

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Ocean Technology, Development & Manufacturing

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

With SmartICE, I get to travel to Inuit communities and help train local people from that community so that when we leave, they have the ability, confidence and knowledge on how to safely operate and run our equipment, with the knowledge and the information they share is helping people in their own communities to be safe while travelling on the sea ice.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Look to people in your community who does something that interest you and talk to them.

Andrew Arreak

LOCATION

Pond Inlet, NU, Canada

EDUCATION

College Diploma

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

SmartICE

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Research & Development

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

Researching for my community and training other northerns.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Be sure to have a laptop and internet connection to stay connected with others.

Zoe Elverum

LOCATION

Pond Inlet, NU, Canada

EDUCATION

High School Diploma & taking online University courses

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

SmartICE

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Research & Development

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

Having graduated from high school in the spring of 2021, my list of milestones and achievements is not that long. Sure I have won some awards here and there, had the opportunity to be apart of some wonderful experiences and competitions, but in my opinion my greatest achievement has been advocacy.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Play your “cards” to your advantage. My cards are being disabled and living in the north. Employer’s are looking to bring diversity into their workforce and playing your cards right will open doors to so many possibilities.

Mia Otokiak

EDUCATION

High School Diploma

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

Nunavut Impact Review Board
Ikaarvik: Barriers to Bridges

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Research & Development

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

Being an Ikaarvik Youth Mentor. Not only being able to work with youth all across Nunavut, but show them that their knowledge and power is so important. Showing them that they have the ability to be involved in science and research in a meaningful way.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

That it may get difficult sometimes, but to keep fighting. Your voice and your actions have a bigger impact that you expect. Raising your voice and showing people that you’re passionate about the Ocean shows them that you’re in it for the long haul.

Kiley Best

EDUCATION

M.Sc. Biology (Aquaculture)

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

Marine Institute

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Research & Development

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

Starting the Petty Harbour Mini Aquarium in 2013 and staying in operation ever since. In addition to becoming the board Co-Chair of the Canadian Network for Ocean Education (CaNOE) in 2019.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Volunteer with a like minded organization and get the experience that you need to be competitive when it comes to starting graduate school and or a career.

Kenneth Oguzie

EDUCATION

Bachelor Degree in Business Management, Masters Degree in Social Policy and Development

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

DOTCAN (Development of Ocean Tech Capacity with African Nations)

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Ocean Tech Business, Training & Maritime Security

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

I consider myself a global citizen having lived in 6 countries (4 continents).

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

It is important to network with fellow professionals and seek opportunities to be mentored.

Ashley Noseworthy

EDUCATION

BSc (Biology), MSC (International Marine Environmental Consulting), MCPM (Masters Certificate in Project Management)

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

EDGEWISE Environmental

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Marine Environmental Consulting

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

Milestones/achievements include: all of my degrees, the launch of the business, ability to hire employees, Edgewise has worked in all major bodies of water within Canada (except for the Arctic)

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Leverage the diversity and differing points of view you can bring to a team. Research those companies you really want to work with, including their diversity and inclusion policy. Seek a mentor (a piece of advice I give all persons entering the ocean sector, particularly those that are new).

Ogaga Johnson

EDUCATION

Electrical & Electronics Engineering

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

Canada’s Ocean Super Cluster (OSC)

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Industry Partnership

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

Being the Founder of Yield Leadership Initiative (YLI), a faith based not-for-profit organization that aims to give God’s love by developing the potentials of young Africans. Through YLI, we empower young Africans by helping them maximize their potentials (through identifying, developing and using their potentials) so that they become their best and leaders in their respective fields.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

You are unique and that makes you very powerful because you bring a special value to the ocean sector that no one else can. You have what it takes, never look down on yourself. It is possible and Yes you can! Get the knowledge needed to excel, network and put yourself forward for opportunities.

Dr. Jackie Dawson

EDUCATION

B.Sc. in Natural Science
Masters in Business
PhD in Geography

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

University of Ottawa

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Scientific Research in Shipping

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

Adopting my two sons.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

If you don’t see yourself represented in the sector you want to work in look harder and if you still don’t see yourself represented then become this change and ensure that those coming after you will feel represented and be inspired.

CarolAnne Black

EDUCATION

B.Sc. in Physics
M.Sc in Oceanography

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

CarolAnne Black, Consulting Science Writers

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Writing, Research and Communication Services

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

I had the pleasure of creating a report, Gender Equity in Ocean Science: Amplifying Voices, Increasing Impact, for Fisheries and Oceans Canada.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

A Seth Godin quote: “You are more powerful than you think.
Act accordingly.”

Dr. Emily Choy

EDUCATION

Biology

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

McGill University

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Scientific Research

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

Working in partnership with northern communities to study the impacts of environmental change on the prey of Beaufort Sea beluga whales. I was also a Weston scientist on the Victoria Strait Expedition to find the lost ships of Sir John Franklin.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Just go for it. You will bring a unique and important perspective to ocean science!

Shannon Steele

EDUCATION

Oceanography and Ocean Mapping

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

Kraken Robotics Systems Inc.

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Ocean Technology Development and Manufacturing

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

Becoming an inventor by developing End-fire Synthetic Aperture Sonar, which is currently under patent review.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Don’t be afraid to ask for the opportunities you want.

Cortney Banks

EDUCATION

Ocean and Naval Architectural Engineering

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

Irving Shipbuilding Inc.

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Shipbuilding

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

Upon graduation I took a job in another country where I didn’t know anyone. It was a really difficult but ultimately really rewarding experience.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Find other people in your underrepresented group that you can connect with. These people don’t have to be at your company, they can be elsewhere in the industry. Having someone in your life the same boat is helpful for discussing the challenges you are facing and gaining support.

Katie Surette

EDUCATION

Welding

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

Irving Ship Building Inc.

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Shipbuilding

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

Being the first woman to win apprentice of the year at Irving shipyard in 2018.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Your under representation does not define you. Don’t let that intimidate you. Once you start working in your sector you will find your own skill set that will help you succeed. If you have a strong work ethic and drive, you can conquer anything.

Janine Meade

LOCATION

Halifax, NS, Canada

EDUCATION

B.Sc., LL.B.

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

Nova Scotia Community College

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Research & Development

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

Successfully switching careers from telecom regulatory/strategy and government policy to Ocean Tech Business development.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Reach out to someone you know in the sector; Take courses in institutes of applied science.

Amy Bower

LOCATION

Woods Hole, MA, United States

EDUCATION

Ph.D. Oceanography from University of Rhode Island

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Academia & Research

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

Maintaining a fulfilling research career as a blind person.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

find a group of peers or colleagues with similar challenges. it makes an enormous difference to realize you are not alone in your challenges, and you can really help each other find solutions.

Judith Underwood

EDUCATION

B.A. International Relations

AFFILIATED ORGANIZATION

Blue Institute

ASSOCIATED OCEAN SECTOR

Ocean Technology
Development & Manufacturing

Name an achievement or a milestone in your life/work that makes you proud.

Becoming the first “blue economy banker” in the U.S.

What advice would you give to underrepresented folks looking to get into a career in the ocean tech sector?

Use LinkedIn to reach out and connect with target companies and people.