Skylar Vogler

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

I use my technical abilities and knowledge to assist research opportunities and help bring new technology to the field. I work closely with my team at the University of New Hampshire to operate, maintain and improve our small fleet of Autonomous Surface Vessels (ASV’s).

What sparked your initial interest in your career?

I started my career by working with robotic system that automated repetitive tasks. I found that my engineering mind, attention to quality and ability to troubleshoot complex systems made this work rewarding.

Who influenced you or encouraged you the most?

I have been influenced significantly by my fellow staff members at The University of New Hampshire. We rely deeply on each other to accomplish complex missions and help further the science being done by our students and faculty.

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

The part about my job that is the most fascinating is that the technology I have collaborated on is gathering data from places that I don’t have the physical ability to visit.

How did you get involved with the Ocean Exploration Trust?

I have found myself working with OET through their desire to expand the use of Autonomous surface vessels (ASV). It’s an exciting opportunity to increase the amount of data that can be collected during a cruise with the use of equipment like the DRIX.

What other jobs led you to your current career?

I marketed myself post college to a lot of organizations during a rather turbulent economic time. I landed an entry level position working for a startup pharmacy. This company was using new automation technology to assist the way a pharmacist distributed medication to patients with different forms of memory impairments. I then moved to a more established medical device company and worked as a field engineer. This role as a field engineer is where I recognized that I had the ability to help researchers and scientists increase their ability to perform science by improving or maintaining their automation equipment. I later pursued a job at The University of New Hampshire. I have now been part of multiple research projects while working at UNH. I have helped put scientific equipment into deep space and now I am assisting the University to collect data from remote places in the ocean!

What are your degrees and certifications?

Batchelor of Science in Environmental and Resource Economics -- The University of New Hampshire 2016

What are your hobbies?

When I am not in the ASV lab, I can often be found down by the river paddling my whitewater kayak or on a mountain trail hiking with my dog.

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

The best advice I can give someone who wants a career like mine is to network and put yourself out there. The most enjoyable careers are sometimes the ones that you didn’t know existed! Try many different jobs and experiences and don’t be afraid to try something new or challenging.