We asked each of our scientists to give us their thoughts on their professions and what they think the future holds for humanity.

What would you recommend for students wanting to pursue a similar career?
My profession does not necessarily require a scientific background, but since resource monitoring is an important task of the work routine, management agencies often ask for a degree in marine biology and/or integrated coastal zone management. The tasks of the manager include the organization of public awareness and fundraising activities and since it is now often mandatory that Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) run financially self sufficient, business administration skills are essential. Of course, since all issues are ocean related, advanced scuba diving and boat driving skills are a must. Some MPAs install and maintain yacht moorings, which requires the handling of underwater hydraulic equipment. However, the most crucial skill for success is effective communication with all the involved stakeholder groups.

What do you like best about your profession?
The most excitement I get from my job is being out in the field, witnessing the fruits of our work: increasing fish stocks, lessening user conflicts and lessening the pressures on our natural resources, to name a few.

What makes you most fearful for the future?
There are too many factors, primarily land-based sources of sediment runoff, pollution and indiscriminate development, which we cannot control directly, diminishing our progress. In addition, economic priorities hinder the implementation of more strict measures to prevent new threats. For example, if we cannot reverse the trend of global warming, all our efforts will be in vain.

What makes you most hopeful for the future?
It gives me hope for our future realizing that it is possible to bring so many various stakeholders, their different interests, objectives and backgrounds together, to develop a common vision, a plan and an agreement to manage and preserve our marine and coastal ecosystems for the benefit of generations to come.