Emily Jones

Tell us about your work/ research. What kinds of things do you do?

I am a formal high school educator turned environmental educator who loves teaching and learning from the world around me anywhere I am. Total wetland bird nerd and macro-invertebrate lover born and raised on a large brackish estuary in California. My personal interests focus on places where distinct waters confluence and the abundant life of those crossover ecosystems support. Often it involves estuaries at the mouths of rivers and oceans with a deep love for the Earth's freshwater estuaries as well! 

My work centers around mentorship for formal educators and aims to support teachers in developing and refining their comfort and skills to bring their students outside to learn. Driven by my own desire to know and connect to place, I love supporting educators in expanding on the work they already do to support their classrooms to the cultural and biogeochemical importance of the lands where their communities resides.
 

What sparked your initial interest in your career?

From a young age, my unique learning differences fueled my passion for teaching. I found solace and inspiration in nature, drawn to the trees and fields that surrounded me. This connection to the environment sparked my curiosity about the world around me and ultimately led me to a career in education.

While teaching Biology in a town known for the largest contiguous brackish ecosystem in the Northern Hemisphere, I was inspired to create a curriculum that connected students with the remarkable waters and lands of their community. This experience deepened my appreciation for the intricate relationship between education and the natural world.

I am fortunate to collaborate with educators, helping them uncover and share the unique stories and ecosystems of their communities. My gratitude for the planet's water, vital to all life, drives my commitment to fostering a sense of connection to the world's oceans, even from afar.
 

Who influenced you or encouraged you the most?

My dad, with his curious mind and keen eye, always encouraged me to question how the things around us function both systematically and culturally. His constant push to explore and understand the world has been a significant influence in shaping my perspective and passion for learning.
 

What element of your work/ study do you think is the most fascinating?

What fascinates me most about my work is the profound connection people have to the natural world. Centering on human experiences, I am captivated by the moments and memories that bind individuals to nature so deeply. In the fields of conservation, deep-sea, and marine research, our shared passion for the environment is shaped by diverse experiences, leading us to cherish specific places, beings, and ecosystems. This collective identity, forged through our interactions with nature, is what drives our commitment and dedication to preserving the planet.
 

How did you get involved with Ocean Exploration Trust? How did you become part of the expedition team?

I came into this role for a short time to support the Science Communication Fellowship and Science and Engineering Internship Programs as a contracted Coordinator.
 

What other jobs led you to your current career?

I have taught in various capacities, from leading outdoor programming and recreation to formal classroom education. My work has involved close collaboration with government conservation professionals and agencies like the National Estuarine Research Reserve. This diverse experience has enriched my approach to education, blending practical, hands-on learning with structured academic instruction.
 

What are your degrees and certifications?

Masters of Environmental Education -- University of Minnesota Duluth 2023 

Bachelor of Science Secondary Education, Biology Minor -- University of Portland, Oregon 2024
 

What are your hobbies?

I am passionate about backpacking and hiking, finding joy and tranquility in nature. Gardening is another favorite pastime, allowing me to cultivate and nurture life. Additionally, I am actively involved in various social justice organizations, dedicating my time to community engagement and advocacy. These activities reflect my commitment to both the environment and social change.
 

What advice would you give someone who wants to have a career like yours?

My advice? Get out of your own way! While skills and knowledge are undoubtedly important, it's passion that truly drives success. Seek out mentors in your field who you can build meaningful relationships with and learn from. Surround yourself with individuals you admire and who support your growth journey. Embrace discomfort as a catalyst for growth, and never forget to reflect on your experiences. It's through this process of continual learning and self-discovery that you'll pave the way to personal and professional fulfillment.