#PeopleofSTEAM: Meet Erin
June 27, 2024
Ella is a FIRST® alum, current undergraduate student at Willamette University, and a NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) Ernest F. Hollings Scholar. She recently had the opportunity to serve as an intern at the National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa, working on developing new methodologies to use ROVs (Remotely Operated Vehicles) to monitor coral reefs. In the summer of 2024, Ella joined the science team of the E/V Nautilus, a research vessel that is studying a deep sea volcano (seamount) in American Samoa. As part of the science team, Ella engaged in deep sea exploration studying the species around seamounts through environmental DNA and chemistry samples collected via autonomous underwater vehicles.
Photo credit: Nova West/OET
In August 2024, Ella went out to sea aboard the E/V Nautilus and during this time she engaged with schools and communities through the Nautilus’ Ship-to-Shore interactions and other collaborations. These engagements provided classrooms around the globe with the unique opportunity to engage directly with the Corps of Exploration’s educators, scientists, and engineers. Students were able to participate in real-time dialogue with the E/V Nautilus science team about deep-sea exploration, discoveries, and careers in this field.
Ella credits her FIRST experience for empowering her to explore a career in the field of ocean exploration and conservation. Learn more about Ella’s inspiring STEAM journey below:
FIRST Staff: Can you share some information about your current role at the National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa?
Ella: As a NOAA Ernest F. Hollings Scholar at the National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa, my job involved developing new methodologies to use underwater Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) to monitor coral reefs. I was also given the opportunity to join the science and communication teams on board the E/V Nautilus where we were studying the species around seamounts through environmental DNA samples collected via autonomous underwater vehicles. Through this role I also conducted Ship-to-Shore interactions with students from around the world, including FIRST® LEGO® League teams preparing for FIRST® DIVESM presented by Qualcomm!
FIRST Staff: What is your favorite part of the work you are doing?
Ella: My favorite part of working at the National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa and the E/V Nautilus is being part of dedicated teams. Everyone was so passionate about their work, and I felt such gratitude to have the opportunity to study these unique underwater ecosystems using robotics technology. Additionally, it was a great experience to work within a small island community in the middle of the Pacific Ocean! I had the chance to collaborate with educators in American Samoa and feel very appreciative of the amazing cultural experience that was shared with me.
Photo credit: Val Brown/NOAA
FIRST Staff: What has been the most challenging part of your role?
Ella: The hardest part of my job as a member of the science team on board the E/V (Exploration Vessel) Nautilus was working around the clock. Whenever the robots were on deck, we were either prepping or processing samples. Specifically, we were sampling Environmental DNA, a technique that allows scientists to learn more about biodiversity in the deep sea. Often, we would be working most of the night and wake up in the morning to do it all again! Luckily my time on FIRST teams prepared me well for working long hours against tight deadlines (alongside dance parties for motivation and morale)!
FIRST Staff: How do you use STEAM skills in your everyday work/life?
Ella: STEAM skills have served as the foundation for my studies in environmental science and archaeology at Willamette University, where I have a focus on using technological tools to aid my research. Though I am studying environmental science, I supplement my research with the technology and engineering skills that I have gained through programs such as FIRST. You never know when you will have to engineer a new attachment or fix equipment while in the field! These skills have taken me all around the world, including studying oceanography in New Zealand, flying drones in Greece, and operating ROVs in American Samoa.
Photo credit: Marley Parker/OET
FIRST Staff: Can you share your thoughts on the impact of your personal/professional work in STEAM?
Ella: Understanding our oceans is important because it impacts all of our lives. The fishing industry, marine biodiversity, weather patterns – all of it is all influenced by ocean systems. By working within communities to help create local solutions for regional challenges, I have learned that scientific research is vital and so is community engagement. Part of this work involves working with educators and students across the world to implement robotics and ocean literacy curriculum into school districts. It is hard to care about protecting our underwater world if we don’t foster a personal connection to it, which is why hands-on education is so important!
FIRST Staff: Who is a “Person of STEAM” who inspires you?
Ella: Early in my FIRST experience, I recognized the importance of community-based action and volunteering. My volunteer experiences at the Port Townsend Marine Science Center’s Marine Mammal Stranding Network led me to meet Jane Lubchenco, a previous administrator for NOAA. After her presentation, she took the time to encourage my STEAM ambitions and sign my beloved volunteer hat, a token of my FIRST days. Her passion, knowledge, and commitment to ocean stewardship is inspiring and it encouraged me to develop my own pathway toward a career at NOAA.
FIRST Staff: If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?
Ella: One piece of advice that I would give to my younger self would be to not let requirements or doubts dissuade me from chasing exciting opportunities. It is all too easy to disqualify oneself from positions, schools, scholarships, or other programs just by not applying. Meaningful connections, enthusiasm, and eagerness to learn can be just as important as specialized skills.
FIRST Staff: Do you have a message you want to share for students who are participating in FIRST today?
Ella: Celebrate your successes and failures, and afterwards take the time to learn from your mistakes. The skills you gain in FIRST will be the foundation for your future education and career. FIRST values such as Coopertition® and Gracious Professionalism® will guide you to be a good team player which makes all the difference as a scientist, engineer, artist, or entrepreneur. Most importantly, keep in contact with your peers, mentors, judges, and supporters – your FIRST network will be an incredible asset to have in your corner as you move through life. Make sure you give back to this community by returning as a volunteer!
Are you a person of STEAM? Share your story with #PeopleofSTEAM on social media or send us your story at marketing@firstinspires.org.