Born and raised in South Florida, Ethan spent his early years romping around the local parks fishing, snorkeling, and critter catching. Early experiences snorkeling the vibrant reefs of the Keys and The Bahamas were foundational in his love of the ocean and desire to continue learning about it. He went on to study marine science and oceanography at the University of Florida where he was exposed to ecology and conservation but also to aquaculture, or the farming of aquatic life. With a newfound interest in sustainable food production, he earned his M.S. in aquaculture at Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute (HBOI) in Ft. Pierce while working alongside ocean scientists of all kinds.
Ethan has since worked as a research assistant at HBOI’s aquaculture department, a marine science educator teaching on a sailboat in the Caribbean, and an aquaculture educator for the State’s Department of Agriculture in Tallahassee. He has skills in scientific research/communication, aquaponic system design and buildout, educational program development, and experiential learning delivery.
Between his personal and professional experiences, Ethan is the perfect person to share his passion for Florida’s unique ecosystems while educating others on the importance of protecting them and how we can do it!