Innovative Environmental and Defense Scientist | Data Systems Architect | Expert in Smart Buoy TechnologyI am passionate about leveraging advanced technology to address real-world environmental and security challenges. With extensive experience in marine systems, environmental data collection, and long-endurance unmanned vehicles, I’ve developed cutting-edge tools to enhance environmental monitoring and defense tech.One of my key accomplishments is forming the company that develops the Kelp Smart Buoy—an innovative, long-endurance unmanned surface vehicle designed for robust environmental monitoring. By integrating solar power and hosting a versatile payload platform, this system offers extended operational capabilities for various scientific applications, from wave and wind measurement to temperature analysis. I am also spearheading projects to improve tsunami forecasting by designing systems that provide NOAA and NWS with enhanced data for their predictive models, helping to protect vulnerable populations.I have had the privilege of working closely with the US Navy and US Air Force to develop advanced military sensors, contributing to national defense by designing systems capable of detecting and classifying multiple threats including hypersonic weapons systems.Driven by curiosity and a commitment to problem-solving, I continue to collaborate with leading scientists and organizations, creating scalable, sustainable solutions that improve our understanding of the environment.Prior to founding HyperKelp,I have 10 years experience teaching Ocean Engineering at the graduate level and 20 years experience in engineering software and hardware development. I developed the first generation of AUVs while at Florida Atlantic University and Florida Tech and produced novel and patented ballast control systems and vehicle navigation systems. I was one of the original founders of Surfline.com, developing and maintaining all scientific and technical aspects of the world’s most accurate marine forecasting and popular surf company. I ran a cutting edge marine and ocean engineering consulting business with clients including Samsung, Total Oil, SpaceX, Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, Army Corps of Engineers and USCG/USN Special forces and AquaAI – developing advanced robotic swimming sensor platforms for water quality measurements in Aquaculture facilities.