2024 EMERGE Program Recipients

Each year, the Marine Technology Society (MTS) proudly supports the growth and development of emerging professionals in the field of marine technology through our EMERGE Program. We are excited to introduce this year's participants, who have exhibited outstanding dedication and a strong commitment to advancing marine technology. Meet the individuals:

Gift Bassey, The Marine Institute of Memorial University of Newfoundland

"To learn about the Ocean is to Love it more! While applying for this scholarship, I was not exactly sure what to expect but I went ahead anyway relying on my zeal to make significant contribution to marine industry development. I had been on a crossroad trying to figure out how to merge skills developed from marine engineering into ocean technology (ocean mapping); then I learned about the EMERGE scholarship program offering a platform for curious minds like mine to explore the world of marine technology. My deepest appreciation is to the Marine Technology Society for believing in me as an Emerging Leader in Marine Technology and offering me this year long opportunity to help shape my future in this industry.

The EMERGE scholarship offer revitalizes my confidence in my ability to take up field projects aimed at development of modern technologies for marine solutions while actively promoting ocean preservation. I am enthusiastic to network with professionals whom I can learn from and who can help direct my energy into achieving relevant success in this field. Ocean resources are to be harnessed for human benefit in a sustainable manner and without damage to the marine environment and this is where marine technology is most appreciated."

Bio: The Marine Industry has always been of great interest to me when it comes to education and career. I started out with a diploma in Marine Engineering from Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron. During this time, I interned at ExxonMobil, Qua Iboe terminal, Ibeno where I was involved in marine vessel quality and control inspections prior to vessel hire for various offshore operations. I later moved to study for a bachelor’s degree in marine engineering at Regional Maritime University, Ghana. As part of my study, I carried out research project in applying computational fluid dynamics for optimization of hull shape performance of artisanal boats in Ghana. I also carried out research project focused on harnessing ocean tidal energy for power generation as part of the Nigerian and Ghana Institute of Mechanical Engineers bootcamp. During my second year at RMU Ghana, I was awarded a training scholarship by Swire Pacific Offshore which also came with a job offer on graduation. I graduated as valedictorian in June 2018 and joined my first ship in July of the same year beginning my sailing career offshore as engineer cadet on platform supply vessels. Since then, I have sailed on several ships and in various ranks, the most recent being third marine engineer on cruise ships with Windstar Cruises.

I have come to learn about the dynamic nature of the marine industry and the vast opportunities available which led to my current study for a master’s degree in applied ocean technology focused on ocean mapping at The Marine Institute of Memorial University of Newfoundland, Canada. This course exposes me to various modern technologies applied in marine operations; it is intriguing to experience the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning in the marine environment. I am particularly passionate about marine environmental protection and preservation.

Norman Chung, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa

"Being honest, I only entered the field of ocean engineering recently and I have a lot I want to learn. I'm super grateful for the chance to participate in the EMERGE program because of the opportunities to network with leading experts in the field and to ask about current, cutting edge, marine technologies. This is my chance to meet people in ocean engineering outside of graduate school and to become as knowledgeable of an ocean engineer as I can be."

Bio: My name is Norman Chung. I graduated from Caltech in June 2023 with a double major in mechanical engineering and geophysics, and I'm currently a master's student studying Ocean and Resources Engineering at the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa. I'm working with Prof. Mike Krieg on a project to design, assemble, and test an AUV for Kilo Nalu Observatory, a near-shore ocean observatory off of Honolulu's coast. Aside from my work on marine robotics, I've been trying to get experience doing marine field work on research cruises. Right now, I'm on a research cruise as a UNOLS-MATE intern working with the AUV Sentry team from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution in the Gulf of Mexico. I would like to go on research cruises related to the Hawai'i Ocean Time Series later this summer. I'm super excited to be part of the EMERGE program, and I'm hoping to present some of my work at the OCEANS 2024 conference in Halifax this year!

Rabi Elabor, Florida A&M University

"Winning this scholarship means a lot to me, as it recognizes my hard work as a student and researcher. It is a profound honor and a pivotal moment in my academic journey. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to join the EMERGE program, which will provide invaluable networking opportunities and professional skill development. Thank you for this amazing opportunity."

Bio: Rabi Elabor is an PhD candidate in environmental science and award-winning designer with a strong background in visual communication, nano-chemistry remote sensing, geospatial innovation, microbial data and visual data interpretation. Her research focuses on ecosystem-based aquaculture management and climate change impacts. She has acquired the relevant skill set in the subject area by working in research labs at Florida A&M University (FAMU). Her international experience reflects a global perspective and adaptability that are crucial for collaborative scientific endeavors. She holds a B. Tech. in industrial design(Ceramic Option) from the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), pursued graphic design studies at Florida A&M University through the FUTA_FAMU International Student Exchange Program, and she is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in environmental science at Florida A&M University. 

Her mantra “Whatever is worth doing at all, is worth doing well.” by Philip Stanhope. Outside of my professional endeavors, she enjoys engaging in meaningful conversations, advocate, for diverse networks and women empowerment, immersing herself in nature, and playing games.

Nick Gagliano, University of Southern Mississippi (finishing this summer) / Sofar Ocean (starting on July 15)

"I am incredibly excited to be selected for the EMERGE program. This opportunity to expand my industry connections and engage in targeted professional development is invaluable for my career growth."

Bio: Nick holds a B.S. in Environmental Science from Auburn University and is an M.S. candidate in Marine Science at the University of Southern Mississippi. After completing his Master's degree this summer, Nick will join Sofar Ocean as an Account Executive. He plans to leverage his expertise in oceanography to promote advanced marine sensing and data solutions. With a strong background in field research and data analysis, he is dedicated to enhancing ocean monitoring and contributing to sustainable marine resource management. Nick's work is driven by a deep commitment to understanding and protecting the natural world through innovative technology.

Diego Johansen, University of Hawaii at Hilo; PacIOOS

"It's an honor to be selected as a participant in the 2024 EMERGE program with MTS. As an undergraduate emerging in the field of marine science and technology, programs like EMERGE allow me to connect with passionate, experienced individuals who can help guide me in the right direction towards opportunities to create positive change for our planet and humanity. Combining marine technology with my passion for ocean conservation has been an exciting journey and I am always eager to learn more. Extremely grateful!"

Bio: I am in my senior year as a Marine Science major at the University of Hawaii at Hilo. I work as a Field Technician with the Pacific Islands Ocean Observing System (PacIOOS), managing water quality buoys around the Island of Hawaii. Additionally, I serve as the Vice Chair for the Marine Technology Society Hawaii section. I love scuba diving, operating boats, and exploring beautiful places. I am blessed to be able to do all of this on the largest volcanoes on Earth!

Sarah Manson, Open Ocean Robotics

"Being selected for the EMERGE program is more than an honor, but also a recognition of my commitment to marine conservation. This opportunity will enable me to expand my network in the marine technology sector, improve my skills, and ultimately make meaningful contributions to marine science in the future."

Bio: Sarah Manson is an early-career ocean scientist who graduated with a degree in Marine Biology from the University of Victoria in 2023. During her undergraduate studies, she undertook a self-directed study on elasmobranch site visitation patterns at coral reef sites in Fuvahmulah, Maldives. This research provided valuable insights into shark habitat use and the data contributed to the designation of the Fuvahmulah Atoll as an Important Shark and Ray Area by the IUCN.

Currently, Sarah is a Junior Marine Scientist at Open Ocean Robotics (OOR), a women-led ocean technology start-up that manufactures and operates Uncrewed Surface Vehicles (USVs). In this role, she operates USVs for various missions, including marine mammal monitoring, illegal fishing detection, and marine domain awareness. The work conducted by the OOR team showcases the transformative potential of marine technology in addressing conservation and security challenges.

Living on the west coast of Canada, Sarah is also an avid diver and explorer, enjoying outdoor activities both above and below the ocean surface. These experiences fuel her dedication to protecting and conserving marine environments for future generations. 

Hafeez Oladejo, University of Southern Mississippi

"I am deeply honored to receive this scholarship, which represents a significant milestone in my academic journey. This support not only acknowledges my past achievements but also empowers me to continue my research in marine technology, aimed at mitigating the impacts of hurricanes and advancing sustainable ocean management. This is an invaluable opportunity to further my contributions to the field and work towards a better future for our oceans and communities."

Bio: I am a teaching and research assistant and a Ph.D. student in Marine Science at the University of Southern Mississippi. I earned a bachelor's degree in Marine Science and Technology from Nigeria and a master's degree in Climate Change and Marine Science from Cape Verde. My research interests focus on the responses of coastal physical processes to climate change and extreme events, as well as advancing marine energy research for energy security and climate change mitigation. I have collaborated on projects monitoring coastal erosion and flooding along the West African Coast. For my Ph.D., I am utilizing numerical models to study hurricane-induced winds, waves, and surges in the Gulf of Mexico, aiming to enhance prediction accuracy and mitigate hurricane impacts.

Kylie Pasternak, University of Rhode Island

"The MTS EMERGE Program is a vital early career asset.  Not only does EMERGE facilitate industry connections by promoting its scholars at the OCEANS conference, but it also provides critical and sustained career mentorship tailored to help the participants achieve their goals."

Bio: Kylie Pasternak is a senior Electrical Engineering undergraduate student at the University of Rhode Island. She has held a variety of technical roles across the non-profit, academic, and defense sectors of the ocean technology industry. Notably, she spent numerous expedition seasons as an ROV pilot with Ocean Exploration Trust on the E/V Nautilus, served as a shipboard marine technician on the R/V Endeavor, worked in glider production for Teledyne Webb, and was sponsored by the MATE Center to work with Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution’s Alvin Group on the R/V Atlantis. She is currently an undergraduate researcher in the Smart Ocean Systems Laboratory at URI’s Graduate School of Oceanography working on AUV residence capability, and Lead Project Engineer for of Ocean Discovery League’s low-cost underwater camera systems. Kylie’s experience facilitating scientific research as a steward of technology has profoundly shaped her career aspirations. Throughout her early career, she discovered a strong passion for engineering and a desire to contribute to the development of future technologies - hence her departure from offshore work to pursue her bachelor’s degree. Providing scientists with sophisticated tools, enabling them to access, sample and investigate marine ecosystems, and allowing them to pose new hypotheses, drive Kylie’s desire to be an electrical engineer within the ocean technology industry.

Adithya Selvakumar, University of Pennsylvania

"I'd like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Marine Technology Society for my acceptance to the EMERGE Program. I am humbled by the faith that MTS has placed in me. Over the coming year, I hope to broaden my research interests, network with other ocean professionals, and share my enthusiasm for the future of marine technology!"

Bio: Adithya Selvakumar is a sophomore at the University of Pennsylvania. As one of thirty students chosen for the selective Vagelos Integrated Program in Energy Research (VIPER), Adithya is pursuing a dual degree in Physics and Electrical Engineering, with minors in Computer Science and South Asian Studies. Adithya's introduction to marine technology was through the MATE ROV Competition. Adithya competed in MATE for six years, eventually founding his own robotics team which recently placed second at the 2023 MATE World Championship. At Penn, Adithya is currently conducting robotics research in the GRASP Lab, with emphases on soft robotics and deep learning.

Some of Adithya's areas of interests include underwater robotics (researching and developing autonomous underwater vehicles and remotely operated vehicles for various applications for underwater exploration, mapping, and environmental monitoring), marine renewable energy (studying and optimizing the use of renewable energy sources in the marine environment, such as offshore wind, tidal, wave, and thermal energy), robotic control systems (designing control algorithms and strategies for robot motion planning, trajectory generation, and manipulation), and robotic power and energy systems (investigating energy-efficient designs for robotic systems, including power management, energy harvesting, and battery technologies).

Nithesh Wazenn, Babson Olin Graduate School of Business

"Winning the MTS scholarship is an incredible honor. I am immensely thankful and filled with gratitude. This recognition affirms my dedication to marine technology and ocean sustainability and propels me toward my dream of making impactful contributions. I am deeply thankful for MTS's support and confidence in my vision. I am committed to advancing innovative solutions for a more sustainable future in marine environments."

Bio: I am an MBA student at Babson Olin Graduate School of Business. I specialize in sustainability, with a background in climate-smart agriculture practices. I live in the United States but work with Ocean Industries across the Nordics, E.U., and the U.K. in the Blue Economy sectors. I lead business strategies and market-based approaches for Ocean sustainability initiatives in aquaculture, shipping, Oil & gas, and water utilities. I want to develop a startup that mitigates ocean noise pollution from shipping.