Kerri Whilden

Name and Institution:
Kerri Whilden
Postdoctoral Research Associate
Geochemical & Environmental Research Group
Texas A&M University

Academic Background:
B.S. Lehigh University 2007, Civil Engineering
M.S. Texas A&M University 2009, Ocean Engineering
Ph.D. Texas A&M University 2015, Civil Engineering

Current Areas of Interest:
Environmental Fluid Mechanics
Ocean Observing Systems
Nearshore Coastal Processes

Why did you sign up for the Chief Scientist Training Cruise?
I signed up for the Chief Scientist Training Cruise (CSTC) for multiple reasons.  While I have worked on small boats for research, I have never stayed overnight on a ship for a research cruise.  The CSTC gave me the opportunity to spend some time at sea.  This particular CSTC was focused on robotic platforms and gave me the chance to test our new AutoNaut ASV, which included deployment, navigation, and recovery.  I was also interested in this CSTC for the opportunity to collect preliminary data that would be useful for my postdoctoral project at Texas A&M University.

What did you learn?
I learned that there are a lot of similarities for conducting field work on small boats (my background) and larger ships (CSTC).  Communication is crucial for successful field operations.  The Chief Scientist must be able to communicate their expectations and needs not only to their science team, but also to the crew of the vessel.  Do not make assumptions.  When in doubt, have the person repeat instructions/expectations to make sure everyone is on the same page.  Safety is the most important factor not only for the scientists and crew, but also for the instrumentation.  Decisions must be made to minimize risk.  When in doubt, go with your gut.  If you find yourself second guessing your decision, you should not proceed.  Finally, use your resources.  Talk to your colleagues.  Perhaps your problem has already been solved by another group.