Emily Crum
Tell us about your work/research. What kinds of things do you do?
In my role as a communications specialist with NOAA Ocean Exploration, I write content for websites, manage social media accounts, design and develop “marketing” materials like fact sheets and posters, lead strategic communications planning and message development, and lead traditional media engagement, all geared towards helping audiences learn about the value, importance, and excitement of ocean exploration. I also lead my office’s communications team, managing a talented group of writers, editors, graphic designers, and web developers.
What sparked your initial interest in your career?
I've always been interested in the natural sciences, but am also drawn to the creative arts. So, as an undergraduate, I studied environmental geology and art studio and went on to get graduate degrees in geology and science communication. I've also had the opportunity to work in formal education, science policy, and graphic design. While it is kind of a random mix, it has come together for me in a way that makes sense, allowing me to apply the creative/artistic side of my brain in sharing the wonders of science.
Who influenced you or encouraged you the most?
My parents have always been my biggest inspirations. My dad was an oncologist and it was through him that I developed an appreciation for science and how its application can be used for the greater good. My mom was a free spirit who loved to draw, paint, and make pottery; she instilled in me (and nurtured) my love for painting and drawing.
What element of your work/study do you think is the most fascinating?
The range and scope of possibilities with ocean exploration are endless. I learn something new nearly every day and have the opportunity to work on projects ranging from shipwreck discoveries to mapping of geological features to sharing previously unknown species of marine life. I get to tell science and human interest stories, design posters, produce videos, make people laugh on social media, interact with the range of people who make ocean exploration possible, and more. And I get to share all of this with people around the world. It's truly rewarding.
How did you get involved with the Ocean Exploration Trust?
NOAA Ocean Exploration and Ocean Exploration Trust have a longstanding partnership, which now includes the Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute. While I've been lucky to help amplify Ocean Exploration Trust's work on E/V Nautilus from shore for years, the expedition to explore within waters of the Cook Islands will be my first time supporting Nautilus communications at sea, so I'm very much looking forward to it!
What other jobs led you to your current career?
I've had a range of opportunities that span nearly every facet of science outreach and engagement. I managed the production of two series of Earth science textbooks for high school and middle school students and educators, conducted science policy work on Capitol Hill for a non-profit Earth science organization, and supported media relations for that same non-profit organization. I joined NOAA in 2005 as a coastal planning associate intern, moved into a web writing role, and eventually became the chief of the External Affairs Branch of the National Ocean Service. I started with NOAA Ocean Exploration as a web developer and served as the web team lead before stepping into my current role leading the communications team (which now includes web and communications).
What are your degrees and certifications?
Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Geology and Art Studio - Case Western University 1997; Master of Science in Geological Sciences - University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill 2000; Master of Technical & Scientific Communication - Miami University 2006; Certificate in Strategic Branding and Public Relations - UCLA 2025
What are your hobbies?
I start nearly every morning with a walk on the beach with my dog. I also enjoy reading, painting, knitting, fishing, and traveling.
What advice would you give someone who wants to have a career like yours?
I'd say to explore every avenue that seems interesting to you and, while it is important to have a plan, don't worry too much about where you're going to end up. Take the classes and work opportunities that are engaging to you, even if they don't always seem to fit together, and never stop taking them...even if you think you are "done," you may stumble onto something totally new that will make you better at your job or take you in an entirely different direction. My education and work experiences are in science (mostly geology), art studio and graphic design, communications, policy, and business; kind of random and all over the place, but they come together nicely for someone who is working to communicate about federal science online (a job, by the way, that I never envisioned doing...until suddenly, I was).
