Having recently graduated from the California Maritime Academy as a licensed Third Mate and aspiring marine technician, I am eager to begin my career in supporting marine research at sea. I’ve had the great honor of beginning my path with the Marine Advanced Technology Education (MATE) program, which will place me on the research vessel Hugh R. Sharp in a few days’ time.
While not my first time aboard a research vessel, nor my first time at sea, the MATE experience will be a new and immeasurably important experience to me. To prepare for the extensive hands-on experience and networking opportunities I will receive, I’ve spent time reviewing numerous marine science and technology-related topics while reflecting on the experiences in research support that I have had so far. My past experience leading research cruises and working with conductivity, temperature, and depth (CTD) sensors should show in my time aboard.
Waiting for me is a red-eye flight and rain on the East coast, but I still look forward to bringing my skill set in both marine technology and maritime operations to support the crew aboard the Sharp.
More soon, and smooth sailing to my fellow MATE interns.
– Shaun Teter