Patrick Riley

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

I have been working as a technician on research ships for over twenty years, mainly on expeditions that recover deep sea core samples. In that time I have transitioned from the lab to the deck side of operations, focussing on the safe deployment and recovery of the various equipment used to collect samples.
 

What sparked your initial interest in your career?

I was very fortunate while completing my geology degree to be able to work with my advisor. The research involved spending time at sea deploying and recovering sediment traps off the east coast of the US and in the Caribbean. The idea that I could combine my love of travel and being on the ocean with a career was a game changer.
 

Who influenced you or encouraged you the most?

I would have to say my parents constant encouragement and understanding my need to explore and seek out new experiences has been a huge influence in every thing that I have done. Also, my university advisor, Dr. Leslie Sautter (Dept of Geology, College of Charleston), was the biggest influence on my career- from providing me with my first off shore experience and showing me that there are many different ways to work in the field of marine science. Along the way, I have come in contact with so many knowledgeable and encouraging "old hands" that have left a lasting impression on me.
 

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

Every aspect of putting equipment over the side of the ship for collecting samples is incredible. It is easy to forget how much is involved and has to go right for viable sampling to take place. It's an amazing process, from deck to sea floor, and back.
 

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

A very good friend and mentor, who I worked with in Antarctica, works for the program and encouraged me to apply for a Deck Chief position.
 

What other jobs led you to your current career?

Just about every job I have had has led to my current position. From working on shrimp boats and tour boats as a teenager, to my first full time job after university working for the Ocean Drilling Program (ODP/IODP) on the "JOIDES Resolution" started the me on the carrer path I've been on. While working for ODP I became fascinated with the deployment and recovery of the tools used in the coring process. I eventually shifted completely to working on and deploying the coring tools used in the recovery of deep sea pressure and conventional core samples. Sailing on many different research ships, all over the glob, coupled with my off-shore sailing and small boat experiences put me in a position to work as a Marine Technician for the US Antarctic Program. Each of these positions required a diverse set of skills that build on experience over time.
 

What are your degrees and certifications?

Bachelor of Science in Geology- College of Charleston 1997; US Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential- Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels and Ordinary Seaman, since 2005, USCG STCW-95, USCG Basic Marine Firefighting, USCG Helicopter Underwater Egress Training, USCG Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training, Hazardous Materials Technician Course, General Radiation and Safety Training, Basic Laser Radiation and Safety Training. Fun, arcane sailing certificates awarded by Neptune: Order of the Shellback, Blue Nose, Red Nose, Golden Dragon, Spanish Main, Sparrow, and Ditch
 

What are your hobbies?

Anything on the water, but mainly surfing, sailing, and sailing/traveling to remote surfing locations.
 

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

I think the most important thing is to have an open mind, a willingness to learn and help out in operations that one finds interesting, and be very flexible to opportunities that may pop up. Having a bag always half packed, and being ready to jump on a plane to a far off destination can be very beneficial.