Luke Millen
Tell us about your work/research. What kinds of things do you do?
My research is in ocean engineering, and I am working to advance the technology that we operate in the ocean. We have come a long way since the early days of ocean exploration, but the deep ocean remains a vast and complex environment. It requires an incredible amount of resources (i.e. time, supplies, money, people) just to visit one tiny fraction of the seafloor on an expedition. Ocean engineers design the vehicles and robotic components that will make the most of that time spent underwater.
What sparked your initial interest in your career?
I have always loved the outdoors and the ocean and wanted to find a career that in some way worked for the good of the planet. I studied environmental and ecological engineering in college because I wanted to build and design a sustainable world. A couple years removed from that, an appetite for the extreme and difficult led me to a career in deep sea diving. Along the way I found that ocean engineering could be the best of both worlds, where a passion for the ocean drives work that is helping the planet.
Who influenced you or encouraged you the most?
Growing up, my family was the most influential on my interest in the ocean. My parents instilled in me a deep respect for the entire natural world, and summers spent tumbling in the waves on the Jersey Shore with my brothers and cousins solidified my love for the ocean.
What element of your work/study do you think is the most fascinating?
I am always impressed by the power and magnitude of the ocean and the challenges it presents. To work effectively on the water, you have to respect it and you have to prepare yourself and your equipment well. But the sea doesn't care how hard you worked, or how long you waited, or how excited you are to be there. Sometimes the ocean says, "today's not a good day to go out and do whatever you wanted to do" and you just have to accept that.
How did you get involved with the Ocean Exploration Trust?
I started out conducting research with the Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute at URI during my first semester in grad school. From that experience, I caught the bug and wanted to get more involved in the ocean exploration community.
What other jobs led you to your current career?
I have previously worked in landscaping, on a farm, in home renovations, as a YMCA summer camp nature instructor, and in large philanthropic events. Through those experiences, I found that I craved both a mental and physical challenge, and this path gave me that.
What are your degrees and certifications?
Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Ecological Engineering - Purdue University 2015; Professional Engineer - State of Illinois
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy traveling, hiking, and getting outside with my family. I am also an avid sports fan and enjoy golfing.
What advice would you give someone who wants to have a career like yours?
It's incredibly rare to find your "dream job" on the first try; your dream job may be out there somewhere, and you don't even know that it exists yet. That's okay! As long as you keep learning, keep asking questions, and keep chasing opportunities that look fulfilling, you can find your way.
