Meet Ocean Explorer Quinlan Yaoch

OET proudly welcomes Quinlan Yaoch to the Corps of Exploration as part of the Science & Engineering Internship Program. This internship program supports community college, undergraduate, and graduate students in building professional workforce experience and exploring STEAM-related careers that connect to research themes like robotics, ocean science, education, and exploration. Quinlan joins E/V Nautilus for our NA168 expedition as an Ocean Science intern.

We sat with Quinlan to learn more about his experience at sea and the path that led him to Nautilus.

Describe your role with OET.

I currently serve as an Ocean Science Intern aboard the E/V Nautilus, primarily working as a Data Logger. As a Data Logger during ROV dives, I work with a team to record operational, scientific, and engineering observations by inputting text and capturing photos. As the ROV resurfaces, I work with my science managers to transport and process samples in the Wet Lab. Afterward, I assist my science managers in transferring and storing information to the Data Lab, where I will also work to produce reports of each dive. 

Can you tell us a little about your background? What influenced you as a child?

My favorite thing to do as a kid was to be outside. I have fond memories of exploring the patch of forest in my neighborhood and making observations of the surrounding flora and fauna. I also remember that mesmerizing feeling of seeing weather phenomena, whether it was the bursts of lightning or seeing the torment brought upon the trees by the wind. In retrospect, my curiosity about the natural world fueled my sense of exploration and eventually my love for science, and my mother noticed it too as she gifted me microscopes and telescopes to play around with. It was also what encouraged me to apply as an Ocean Science Intern aboard the E/V Nautilus. 

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be anything and everything as a kid. In the second and third grades, my country was hit by two consecutive super typhoons, which made me interested in becoming a meteorologist. I experienced my first solar eclipse in the fifth grade which made me interested in becoming an astronomer or astronaut. At one point, I even saw myself being a geologist and at another point an inventor (like the guy from Disney’s “Meet the Robinsons”). Looking back, I’ve always known I wanted to become a scientist – I just didn’t know which one. 

What would you consider to be your greatest challenge entering this field? 

Marine biology – actually biology in general, is a field I haven’t spent much time in. I have very limited knowledge in the science of animal and plant kingdoms, and I especially struggle with scientific names. I will say, my time on this expedition has made me familiar with some concepts, so all I need is time to learn things. 

Do you have any advice for someone looking to follow a similar path? 

As cliché as it may sound, the only thing to fear is truly fear itself. Don’t be afraid to try new things and explore your potential. I’m glad I overcame my fear and took my chance with OET’s Nautilus. 

What’s next for your ocean studies and career? 

After this expedition, I need to continue taking classes at my school, Palau Community College, and graduate with an Associate in Science (AS) degree in STEM Disciplines. After that, I am very interested in continuing my education at a four-year university, though I still yet have to choose a major.