President, Heather Spence LLC
How did you get started in the conservation space, and what steps did you take to reach your current position?
Music led me to marine biology. Originally, I attended college on a cello scholarship, but since the scholarship didn’t require a music major, I explored sound from a scientific perspective. After creating my own major in Acoustic Biophysics and working through several departments, I earned a B.S. in Biology with a minor in Physics. For my senior thesis, I discovered snapping shrimp, fascinating creatures responsible for some of the loudest ocean sounds. This discovery fueled my passion for marine biology. I pursued a M.S. in Marine Biology, followed by an international fellowship, and eventually returned for a Ph.D. focusing on noise in dolphin habitats. I now work as a freelance consultant and president of my own LLC, collaborating with experts across disciplines.
What are the most important skills needed for a successful career in your field?
Persistence: Conservation can be challenging and competitive, and maintaining hope and resilience is key to long-term success.
What are the biggest challenges you face in your work, and how do you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges is securing funding and recognition for interdisciplinary work. Building strong relationships across fields and advocating for the broader value of transdisciplinary projects helps to overcome these challenges.
In a few sentences, please describe what you do as a Marine Biologist, Musician, Composer, Educator, and Consultant.
I collaborate with scientists, politicians, and artists globally to foster research and conservation efforts. By combining my knowledge of sound and science, I create music that connects people with our oceans, raising awareness and inspiring conservation action.
What is a typical day like for you at work?
Much of my day is spent in meetings, writing, and communicating. However, there are exciting moments, such as scuba diving on coral reefs or attending marine energy device deployments.
Recommended Courses & Certifications
• Scuba Diving: Experience the ocean in a unique, immersive way.
• Energy Master Program: Learn how to reduce energy and water consumption.
• AAAS Science & Technology Fellowship: A bridge between science and government
• Artist-in-Residence Programs: Foster interdisciplinary approaches to big questions.
Emerging Trends
• AI/Machine Learning: A growing trend in conservation, but should be applied ethically.
• Marine Renewable Energy: Harnessing energy from waves, tides, and currents.
• Community-Focused Conservation: Listening to actual interests and needs is critical in early stages.
Networking Tips
Networking is essential in conservation. Engaging in creative activities, such as music or the arts, can help build meaningful connections across professions. Keep an open mind when interacting with others, as you never know what collaborations might arise.
Work-Life Balance
Balancing work and life in a field that demands continuous learning is challenging. By integrating different aspects of my work, I find ways to address multiple challenges together and gain insights that help solve them more efficiently.
Advice for New Professionals
Follow your passions and interests, even if they don’t fit traditional paths. You have the power to create your own unique career path by combining what inspires you most