Natalie Cook

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

I am currently a research assistant at the Center for Coastal and Ocean Mapping with the autonomous surface vehicle (ASV) lab. In the lab I help with whatever topics need more investigating and on-site I aid small boat operations along with ASV and mapping support. After earning my Category A Certificate for mapping, I am excited to utilize both my engineering and mapping skills together to be able to explore more topics with ASV operations for exploration.

What sparked your initial interest in your career?

E/V Nautilus was actually what got me excited about seafloor exploration! In high school I attended an engineering-focused summer camp that introduced me to various topics around ocean engineering and mapping. During this I was introduced to the E/V Nautilus livestreams which I found so interesting.
I remember sneaking away with my friend to watch the ROV dives in our room and asking the watch team questions. We signed every question with the name of our camp since we figured they were more likely to answer if they thought it was a room full of students instead of two teenagers watching on an old tablet while eating candy. After that, I knew I wanted to pursue a career involving ocean exploration.

Who influenced you or encouraged you the most?

My family has always been so supportive of me throughout everything I decide to try. They've helped me find confidence in my abilities and encouraged me to put myself out there and try new things. My father especially has pushed me to keep learning and asking questions, something for which I will always be grateful.

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

I really enjoy working with different people from all over the world with different scientific and technical backgrounds. Its fantastic to blend all of our skillsets to be able to work towards a deeper understanding of the ocean and develop improving technology to get there faster.

How did you get involved with the Ocean Exploration Trust?

I am able to work with OET through DriX! The ASV lab at the Center for Coastal and Ocean Mapping has been working with E/V Nautilus for deployments of the ASV DriX and I am excited to be part of the team for shoreside support.

What other jobs led you to your current career?

Throughout my undergraduate degree I worked summer internships at the Center for Coastal and Ocean Mapping to help with autonomous mapping missions. Through these opportunities I was able to get small boat training, hands-on mapping experience at sea on NOAA vessels, and develop a lot of technical skills such as coding and networking that have helped me throughout my graduate work.

What are your degrees and certifications?

Bachelor of Science in Ocean Engineering - University of New Hampshire -- 2023

International Federation of Surveyors/International Hydrographic Organization/International Cartographic Association (FIG/IHO/ICA) Category A Certificate -- Center for Coastal and Ocean Mapping / National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration-University of New Hampshire Joint Hydrographic Center -- 2024

What are your hobbies?

I love playing board games and spending as much time outside as possible with biking, backpacking, and just relaxing in a hammock with a good book. I also love jigsaw puzzles!

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

Keep asking questions and try your best to get out of your comfort zone since that's where the learning and opportunities will come. I never would've been able to do even half of the stuff I've done if I hadn't pushed myself to ask for a chance to try new things. It can be uncomfortable or scary but that's where you grow as a person and as a researcher.