Interview with Andrew Shepard, Director of NOAA’s Undersea Research Center at Wilmington, North Carolina
What does your job entail?
I am in charge of program development and raising funds to support center programs at NOAA’s Undersea Research Center. I am also the Chief Scientist for the Oculina mission. This involves preparing a cruise plan prior to the cruise and taking care of any changes in the cruise plan during the mission.
What do you like best/least about your work?
The best part of my job are the cruises. It’s rewarding to execute the research we worked hard to get funded. The thing I like least about my job is the lobbying.
Do you have any advice for others interested in your work?
I recommend a strong educational background, especially in math and science. An advanced degree will be necessary to become a director.
When you are not working, what are your hobbies?
Golf, flyfishing, and exercising.
What is your favorite book?
Go Dog Go by Dr. Seuss
What is your favorite movie?
Pulp Fiction
What is your favorite saying or motto?
“Golf is a good walk spoiled.”
What would be the one place you would like to travel to?
New Zealand
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I will probably still be the director of NURC, hopefully having built up the program over the years. Even if I’m not the director, I definitely see myself still working in the marine conservation field.