Gareth Turgeon

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

I am currently in the Bachelor's of Science in Marine Technology Program at Northwestern Michigan College. Because of this program, I specialize in underwater surveying using sonar, ROVs, and even some autonomous vessels. My experience is primarily in shipboard ROV/Sonar operations, but I also have some experience using autonomous vessels through Marine Technology Society's workshops.
 

What sparked your initial interest in your career?

I started out in Marine Technology because I have always loved the ocean and the concept of exploring the unknown. Initially I was going to school for industrial engineering, but once I had the chance to experience the marine technology field, I was hooked instantly. I changed my major and enrolled at Northwestern Michigan College in the Marine Tech Bachelor's program. Since then, I have been learning how to apply my technical skills to help the World's Oceans.
 

Who influenced you or encouraged you the most?

The people who encouraged me the most are definitely my family. My parents always encouraged me to put myself out there and explore. This cultivated a curiosity within me that led me to become a diver, an outdoorsman, and an explorer by nature. This curiosity paired with an interest in engineering made me a naturally good fit for technical programs.
 

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

The most fascinating part of this work for me is that we know more about the Moon and Mars than we do about our own oceans. Being able to see something new down there that hasn't been discovered before is incredibly exciting, and I always look forward to the possibilities that the unknown holds.
 

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

I applied for the SEIP program after my Freshwater Studies class did a live Ship to Shore interaction.
 

What other jobs led you to your current career?

I've had many opportunities through Marine Technology Society workshops to learn more about the technologies that we use to explore the oceans. While these may not be jobs, they gave me hands on experience with the same equipment i will be using in the field.
 

What are your degrees and certifications?

Associates of Science in Industrial Maintenance Technology- Gateway Community and Technical College 2024
Bachelors of Science in Marine Technology - Northwestern Michigan College 2027 (In Progress) 
Scouting America Eagle Scout Class of 2019
PADI Certified Rescue Diver
American Red Cross Lifeguard & CPR Certified

 

What are your hobbies?

I am an avid mountain biker, climber, diver, and a budding surfer. I love the outdoors and doing anything that gets me out there exploring.
 

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

The best advice I can give is to put yourself out there. Even if there is something you think you have a small chance at getting, apply anyway! To get a career like this, you need technical and troubleshooting skills, but you also need to put yourself out there as a candidate for programs like Marine Technology Society's workshops and the Science & Engineering Internship Program onboard the E/V Nautilus.