How do you see your work at NPS contributing to your long-term career goals in the Navy, especially in roles related to underwater acoustics and Arctic operations?

As a METOC Officer, we work in multi-dimensional environments every day and every area where we improve our understanding of that environment allows us to better support operations. I enjoy the sea ice research because it is vital to mariners of all shapes and sizes - from sailing vessels and pleasure cruises to military operations.

Can you share how the multidisciplinary environment at NPS has shaped your research, especially in collaboration with faculty and other students?

My primary advisors, Dr. Younjoo Lee and Dr. Benjamin Reeder have been vital in assisting my goal of linking acoustic data to ensemble forecasts in the Regional Arctic System Model (RASM).  However, I am blessed to also collaborate with multiple advisors and faculty ranging from those in the Machine Shop who assisted by building our equipment, to Professor Emeritus Tim Stanton and the Autonomous Ocean Flux Buoy (AOFB) Program, whose in-situ data I am using to compare model results in RASM. The MR/OC departments themselves coordinate and sync so that students receive a range of knowledge aimed at preparing us for our milestone tours.

What inspired you to focus your research on using acoustics to determine the properties of Arctic ice? Given the data you’ve collected, how do you plan to apply your findings to improve ice modeling programs and operational tools like the Regional Arctic System Model (RASM), particularly in aiding the National Ice Center and naval operations in the Arctic?

I did not initially set out to use acoustics, I was brought onto the project by a fellow student, Lt. Cmdr. Taylor Hudson, who knew I was interested in improving ice composition knowledge for mariners transiting ice-populated waters. The data we collected will give us an idea of in-situ ice density, thickness, and strength which we can then compare to models and confirm we are using the most relevant properties.

Ice Camp Whale provided a unique opportunity to conduct research in one of the harshest environments on Earth. What were some of the most significant findings from your experience there?

So far, we have confirmed that the use of coherent sources can be applied to infer ice properties, enabling for more remote capabilities compared to methods like dropping weights or using explosives. This development could allow analysts to supplement satellite imagery with acoustic data. We also were able to collect data supporting dynamic sound speed profiles under the ice and observe wake detections in different water masses. We published some initial findings earlier this year, see "Flexural waves generated by coherent sources in Arctic sea ice" in the Proceedings of the Institute of Acoustics.

Given the strategic importance of the Arctic, how do you see the research conducted during ICE CAMP 2024 impacting future naval policies and operations in the region?

My experience at the U.S. National Ice Center highlighted the interest among many researchers and entities, both domestic and international, in collaborating and improving products for safe navigation in ice-populated waters. I carried this mindset to Ice Camp 2024 and believe that as a part of Arctic Edge, the research and testing we complete will enhance Arctic Readiness in the air, surface and undersea domains.

ICE CAMP 2024 involved participants from several allied nations, including Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. How did the international collaboration at Ice Camp Whale enhance the research outcomes, and what were the benefits of working with partner nations in such a critical and strategic environment?

We were only at Operation Ice Camp 2024 for the first week, but we did rely on the Royal Canadian Air Force for transportation of ourselves and our gear to the ice floe and were assisted by Royal Canadian Navy personnel with logistics and equipment deployment. The benefits of working with partner nations in the early stages of research promotes aligned efforts and data sharing in the operational environment. Having seen the strides in advancements made possible in the Arctic region as Ice Services around the world collaborate through organizations like the International Cooperative Engagement Program on Polar Research (ICE-PPR) and International Ice Charting Working Group (IICWG), our involvement at Operation Ice Camp 2024 only served to strengthen those relationships. When the 25th annual IICWG working group conference is held on NPS' campus next month, I hope to connect my research with other experts in the field.