Matt Hommeyer
Tell us about your work/research. What kinds of things do you do?
I wear many hats at COMIT, but the two I put on the most often and, fortunately, also enjoy the most are (1) technical direction and execution of research projects involving uncrewed systems, emerging applications of hydrography, and data visualization; and (2) experiential instruction and mentoring for graduate students and undergraduate interns in ocean mapping tools and methods, sensor integration, and techniques for the acquisition and processing of high-quality hydrographic data.
What sparked your initial interest in your career?
I credit my undergraduate mentors, Drs. Pat and Tom Manley, with getting me hooked on oceanography and geophysics and then indulging that interest with on-the-water research opportunities in Lake Champlain and the Antarctic. In the 20+ years since, I've had the good fortune to work with so many exceptional colleagues throughout industry and academia who've sustained my curiosity and enthusiasm.
Who influenced you or encouraged you the most?
My grandfather was a significant early influence. He had a great love for the outdoors and taught me many things, including how to fish. Later on I realized his style of fishing lessons were actually lessons on using limited information to build a complex four-dimensional model in your head, one that includes bathymetry, currents, temperature, ecology, biology, and so on. The bathymetry piece is the one that always interested me the most as a kid--even though I didn't know the word for it at the time--and now I get to be professionally obsessed with it as a career.
What element of your work/study do you think is the most fascinating?
Broadly speaking, the technology. I will shamelessly geek out on cool toys for cool toys' sake as much as anyone. That said, my primary interest is in how technology translates into access. I think I have one of the best jobs in the world, and I want other people to have the opportunity to share the amazing experiences I've had. However, so much of my job is locked behind a door reading, "Must be able and willing to go to sea for extended periods," and that stops a lot of talented people from contributing to ocean exploration. Recent advances in computing and communications technology are wedging that door open a little wider every year, and I'll be fascinated to find out who starts venturing through it.
How did you get involved with the Ocean Exploration Trust?
I've worked and sailed with several people associated with OET over the course of my academic career, all of whom told me I should take the opportunity to get involved when it came along.
What other jobs led to your current career?
I've worked as a marine survey technician, jazz musician, field geologist, environmental consultant, and commercial/competition routesetter at a climbing gym. In my current role, I lean on my experience from all those jobs; some more than others, and the relative emphasis might surprise you.
What are your degrees and certifications?
Bachelor of Arts in Geology - Middlebury College 2002
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy music, fly fishing, rock climbing, and anything that involves hanging out with dogs. I also did a lot of skiing when I was younger, but good snow is hard to find in the Florida Alps.
What advice would you give someone who wants to have a career like yours?
I'm not sure I would! We often talk about having a career path; I would say I've had more of a career river, and not every meander has been one I'd recommend. Two bits of generic advice, though. One: cultivate your ability to write descriptively, analytically, and persuasively. Those are three distinct skills, and learning when they need to be employed individually or in combination is a lifetime project. Two: as often as possible, seek out opportunities where you will be the least skilled, least knowledgeable, least qualified person in the room.
