Matt Cabell Email & Phone Number

Palmyra Atoll, Pacific Islands Marine National Monument

In my role of CMO, I successfully coordinated and oversaw all remote marine activities, encompassing research, natural resource management, SCUBA diving, and emergency response operations. I took a proactive approach in training both staff and volunteers on essential skills such as boating safety, snorkeling, and rescue procedures. This included leading rescue drills and coaching response teams to ensure preparedness and efficiency.I was responsible for operating, maintaining, and scheduling a fleet of scientific vessels. Through diligent and efficient preventative maintenance, I was able to significantly reduce downtime, ensuring our operations ran smoothly. Additionally, I managed and maintained dive compressors, guaranteeing a continuous supply of safe air for all diving operations. My dedication to safety and efficiency in marine activities has been a cornerstone of my professional achievements.

Palmer Station, Antarctica

As an Antarctic Research Vessel Captain, I expertly managed a fleet of 15 active small boats, ensuring the seamless operation and maintenance of outboard motors, inboard turbo diesels, hydraulic systems, inflatable boats, and rigid hull inflatable vessels. I skillfully operated 30’ rigid hull inflatable (RHIB) research vessels under varying and often extreme conditions to facilitate scientific data collection, CTD deployments, and net tows.As the Ocean Search & Rescue Lead, I was responsible for creating and training highly capable teams to conduct safe rescue operations throughout the Palmer Peninsula. I provided comprehensive training and oversight for station personnel on marine safety, covering essential topics such as basic seamanship, electronic navigation, radio protocol, float planning, deployment of oceanographic systems, vessel safety, rough weather operations, and conducting operations in remote settings.Additionally, I meticulously maintained records of daily operations, including vessel logs, situation reports, fuel usage, equipment maintenance, vessel launch/recovery, and turnover reports. My commitment to marine safety and operational efficiency has been instrumental in supporting our scientific endeavors and ensuring the well-being of all personnel involved.

Southern Ocean, Antarctica

While working as an Antarctic MT, I collaborated closely with a team of Antarctic Support Contract (ASC) technicians aboard the research vessels RVIB Nathaniel B. Palmer and ASRV Laurence M. Gould as part of the United States Antarctic Program (USAP). We delivered world-class science support operations, adhering to established protocols and procedures to ensure the highest standards of safety and efficiency.I maintained and coordinated deck operations, deck safety, and science operations on these USAP research vessels. My responsibilities included overseeing and assisting scientists with the deployment, retrieval, and handling of specialized oceanic research equipment. I managed and operated a fleet of small boats, skillfully using equipment to launch and recover the boats via trailer and crane.Additionally, I maintained the vessels’ inflatable boats and outboard motors, ensuring we had the necessary spare parts to fully support the scientific program. I also played a key role in assisting scientists with crabeater seal and humpback whale tagging and sampling, contributing to important research and conservation efforts.

Dry Tortugas National Park

My journey with the National Park Service was a dynamic blend of leadership, scientific exploration, and maritime stewardship. As a dedicated member of the team, I had the privilege of contributing to the protection and preservation of our natural treasures.One of my key roles involved leading small boat operations in the challenging waters 70 miles west of Key West, FL. With a strong emphasis on safety and efficiency, I coordinated missions to support scientific research efforts, ensuring the smooth operation of our vessels and equipment in the open ocean environment.My passion for marine conservation led me to monitor coral reef ecosystems up close, conducting SCUBA dives to identify and address threats such as disease, bleaching, and growth anomalies. I worked diligently to implement effective strategies for protecting these fragile habitats, collaborating with colleagues to develop long-term goals and procedures to enhance productivity within in-situ coral nurseries.In addition to my scientific duties, I also had the opportunity to serve as Relief Captain aboard the 110' NPS M/V Fort Jefferson supply ship, where I was entrusted with ensuring the safety of the vessel and its crew during voyages from the Florida Keys to Louisiana. This experience provided me with valuable insights into maritime operations and leadership, further enriching my skill set.Throughout my time with the National Park Service, I maintained a strong focus on collaboration and partnership. I worked closely with scientists from various academic institutions and government agencies, coordinating logistics and data collection efforts to fulfill grant requirements and advance our understanding of marine ecosystems.

Aspen, Colorado, United States

Florida Keys

During my contract with CRF, I had the privilege of serving as Captain and Team Lead for over 150 restoration effort dives aboard 25’ research vessels. In this role, I supervised and trained interns, volunteers, and staff on various aspects of marine safety, basic seamanship, and small boat handling, ensuring the highest standards of safety and professionalism.I took a hands-on approach to monitoring over 10 reef sites, meticulously noting changes within CRF’s master data repositories. Through careful analysis and implementation of new procedures and protocols, I played a key role in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of our restoration efforts.One of my proudest achievements was leading a record-setting year in outplanting efforts, with over 22,000 Acropora corals planted. This success was the result of meticulous planning and direction, as well as effective teamwork and coordination toward common goals in field research and monitoring.In addition to my leadership responsibilities, I also played a crucial role in the operation, maintenance, and repair of restoration vessels, trucks, compressors, tanks, and equipment. By ensuring seamless operation between research efforts, I contributed to the overall success and impact of our restoration initiatives.

Key West, Fl

At Fury, I provided invaluable assistance to captains in managing all aspects of catamaran operations, ensuring the safety and comfort of up to 127 guests. My responsibilities encompassed docking, fueling, maintenance, and implementing safety protocols to guarantee smooth and secure voyages.In addition to my operational duties, I took on the role of educating guests on coral reef ecology, protection, and conservation, as well as the laws and regulations governing sanctuary areas. Through engaging briefings, I aimed to foster awareness and appreciation for these precious marine environments.As part of our commitment to environmental education, I led immersive mangrove ecological tours by kayak, offering insights into the intricacies and significance of the mangrove ecosystem. These experiences provided guests with a deeper understanding of the vital role mangroves play in coastal ecosystems.Furthermore, I served as a lifeguard during open ocean excursions, completing over 400 excursions. My vigilance and swift response ensured the safety of all participants, enhancing their enjoyment of marine activities while maintaining a high standard of safety.

Key West, Fl

West Palm Beach, Florida

During my tenure at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, I played a pivotal role in wetland restoration efforts and the maintenance of a vast protected area spanning 64,000 acres. I assisted in planning and implementing maintenance activities aimed at preserving and enhancing these critical habitats.As part of our conservation efforts, I was actively involved in executing prescribed burns using drip torches and flame throwers. These controlled burns were instrumental in managing native and exotic vegetation while mitigating the risk of uncontrolled wildfires, ensuring the long-term health of the ecosystem.In addition to my work in habitat management, I collected biological sampling data from harvested animals, including white-tailed deer and wild hogs. This data collection process provided valuable insights into wildlife populations and habitat health, informing future conservation strategies.Furthermore, I operated, maintained, and repaired a wide range of wildlife management equipment, including swamp buggies, 4×4 trucks, tractors, dump trucks, and chainsaws. By ensuring the reliability and functionality of this equipment, I contributed to the efficiency and success of our conservation efforts on the ground.

Maryland, United States

My experience with the National Security Agency was defined by the crucial role I played in translating foreign language information of vital national security interest into English for issuance as SIGINT reports to high-level consumers, including Presidents Bush and Obama. This demanding responsibility required not only linguistic expertise but also a keen understanding of nuanced intelligence data and its implications.In this capacity, I meticulously analyzed key intelligence terms from multiple sources, providing valuable insights that contributed to the production of numerous reports sent to national-level decision-makers. Leveraging highly sophisticated automatic data processing equipment, I manipulated, prepared, and produced material with precision and efficiency, ensuring that critical information was accurately conveyed to those who needed it most.Furthermore, I took on the responsibility of training new personnel on software and operating procedures, ensuring that our team operated seamlessly and effectively. Over the course of my time at the agency, I produced over 100 time-sensitive translations and generated reports that were briefed directly to national-level decision-makers, demonstrating my ability to thrive in high-pressure environments and deliver results under tight deadlines.One of the highlights of my career was serving as the primary analyst for a high-priority target mission, where I facilitated the dissemination of timely and accurate reports to executive-level officials and the President. This experience underscored my commitment to excellence and my ability to perform at the highest levels of national security.In recognition of my contributions, I was honored to receive the Joint Service Commendation Medal from the Director of National Intelligence, a testament to my dedication and exceptional performance in service to our nation's security.

Virginia, United States

In the heart of the CIA's covert operations, I embraced a pivotal role, offering indispensable support to three DIRNSA mandated Joint Task Force (JTF) teams as they tackled global threats head-on. My privilege was to ensure the seamless and precise delivery of the presidential daily brief, a cornerstone of national security decision-making.Operating in a fast-paced environment, I meticulously scanned and analyzed reports from various sources in "near real time," playing a pivotal role in the time-sensitive coordination and dissemination of worldwide all-source intelligence. This involved synthesizing vast amounts of information to provide actionable insights to decision-makers at the highest levels.My dedication and contributions to these efforts did not go unnoticed. I was honored to be recognized by the Director of National Intelligence with two National Intelligence Meritorious Unit Citation awards, reflecting the significance of my role in supporting the missions of the JTF teams.Additionally, I took it upon myself to author a standard operating procedure that supported critical task force needs, ensuring the continuity of training for all JTF critical support team members. This initiative not only facilitated smoother operations but also enhanced the effectiveness of our overall mission readiness.

Bachelor'S Degree, Biology/Biological Sciences, General

Associate Of Arts - Aa, Korean Studies