What does a typical day look like for you?

As someone who co-manages Iconic Reef Guardians—the community stewardship program for Mission: Iconic Reefs—there’s rarely such a thing as a “typical” day, and that variety is one of the things I enjoy most about the job. Some days involve updating our Tovuti learning management system, which trains recreational and professional divers participating in the Iconic Reef Guardians program. On others, I’m in the field, donning dive gear to observe a program trip in action. While certain days are filled with meetings and coordination, I always appreciate the opportunity to be hands-on and out in the water whenever possible.

A core part of my role is serving as the on-the-ground liaison for our Blue Star Diving Operators—ensuring they feel supported and confident throughout their involvement with the program, whether they're just getting started or returning for another season. These dive shops are the backbone of Iconic Reef Guardians, and it’s a privilege to work alongside them.

What NOAA project have you enjoyed working on the most?

As a Florida Keys resident who cares deeply about our local reefs, Mission: Iconic Reefs has been the most meaningful project I’ve worked on. This NOAA-led, partner-driven initiative aims to restore nearly three million square feet of Florida’s Coral Reef by restoring its structure, function, and resilience over the next two decades.

I started in the Keys in 2018 as an intern with the Coral Restoration Foundation, one of the program’s key partners. I was later promoted to a full-time role, where I managed interns and volunteers helping to meet the program’s coral outplanting goals. From there, I continued working with Mission: Iconic Reefs partners through my time at the Keys Marine Laboratory. In my current position—supported by the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation—I focus on public engagement and stewardship, helping more people take part in restoring coral habitat in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.

It’s been incredibly rewarding to watch this program grow and evolve, and to contribute to a long-term effort that directly benefits the reefs I’ve always loved.

How did you get to where you are now in your career?

Honestly, it happened by chance. I always knew I wanted to work in marine science, and for a long time, I thought that meant specializing in marine mammal rehabilitation—a big contrast to the work I do now. While studying at the University of New England in Maine, I signed up for a coral reef elective that included a field trip to Belize in the middle of winter. I’ll admit, I initially joined just for the trip and wasn’t all that interested in corals. But the moment my professor, Dr. Jeri Fox, started speaking, I was completely hooked.

Since then, I’ve taken on all kinds of roles—volunteering, interning, and working odd jobs—to gain experience in coral restoration. It’s been a rewarding journey, full of unexpected turns, and I’ve developed skills I never imagined I would. I’m so grateful I took a chance on something unfamiliar, and I try to carry that mindset forward in both my personal and professional life.

Why do you think your work matters—to the ocean, to science, or to the public?

Our reefs can’t speak up when something goes wrong. They can’t ask for help—and that means there’s a real risk they’ll silently disappear beneath the picturesque surface of the ocean. As conservationists, it's our responsibility to be a voice for coral reefs and the many other ecosystems that need support. By speaking up, we can raise awareness, inspire people to care, and encourage long-term action to protect our ocean planet.

If we don’t communicate the urgency, who will? That’s why this work matters.