Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Columbus, Ohio.
Where did you go to school and what subject did you get your degree(s) in?
I received a Bachelor’s of Science in Zoology from The Ohio State University. For graduate school I went to East Carolina University and received a Master's of Science in Biology and a Doctorate in Coastal Resources Management.
How did you come to work at the Southeast Fisheries Science Center?
I worked as a contract fisheries observer in Alaska, then as a port agent with NOAA’s Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office, and a biologist with North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries. Then I took a biologist position with the science center in Beaufort, North Carolina. From there I took a branch chief position in Miami leading the Commercial Monitoring Branch and finally moved into my current position in 2019.
What do you do at the science center?
I lead the Fisheries Statistics Division, which includes all the fisheries dependent data collections, managing and disseminating that data for use in science and management. As well, this includes making advances in the way we collect, manage, and disseminate fisheries dependent information.
What do you like most about your position?
Our data collection process includes many partners and I enjoy the opportunities for collaboration that these partnerships afford both me and my staff. We work closely with NOAA Fisheries headquarters and regional offices, regional fisheries commissions, and state and territorial partners to achieve common goals.
What do you like to do outside of work?
Outside of work I spend time completing home repairs, visiting the theme parks in Orlando, hiking in the Smoky Mountains and the Hocking Hills area in southern Ohio, target shooting, and occasionally even fishing.
