 What is your current job and what does it entail?
I am the Proactive Conservation Program coordinator at the Northeast Regional Office (NER) of the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) in Gloucester, MA. I am responsible for developing and directing a program within the NER to identify species at risk and implement conservation programs for these species. I am also responsible for responding to and participating in issues related to listing species under the Endangered Species Act and facilitating the recovery of existing listed species.
What was the key factor in your career decision?
I have had a lifelong interest in the marine environment, particularly in regard to the life history, population dynamics and conservation of sharks. My job provides me with the opportunity to be involved in the conservation and recovery of many different marine species, including some species of sharks.
What do like most about your career?
There is a great deal of variety in my job so it is never boring. I have had the opportunity to focus on diadromous species issues; to respond to petitions to list oysters, eels and winter flounder; as well as to strive to implement proactive conservation efforts for various species of fish from Atlantic halibut to dusky sharks.
What do you like least about your career?
My job is primarily a desk job. At times, I miss being able to go out in the field and conduct research.
What do you do to relax?
I love spending time with my husband and two young children. We like being outdoors - swimming, hiking, kayaking, cross country skiing and sledding. I also enjoy reading a good book.
Who are your heroes/heroines?
When I was young, I read the Shark Lady, which was about the life and career of Dr. Eugenie Clark. Dr. Clark has had a fascinating career as a shark researcher and has helped to pave the way for women in this field. As such, I have always considered her to be one of my heroines.
What advice would you give a high school student who expressed an interest in pursuing a career in your field?
There are so many possible career paths for people interested in marine science. As such, I recommend that students explore the different opportunities available and volunteer or obtain a summer job where they will gain practical experience in their field of interest.
Are career opportunities in your field increasing or decreasing and why?
It's hard to say but most likely increasing. Job opportunities are contingent on the current budget situation; however, there is an increased awareness of the need to conserve species at risk, which has resulted in more opportunities becoming available.
What will you be doing 10 years from today?
I hope to be doing something similar to what I am doing now as I feel that trying to be proactive rather than reactive is essential to the long-term goal of the conservation of marine species.
Salary:$60,000-80,000
Email:kimberly.damon-randall@noaa.gov
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