Hayden Niles
Tell us about your work/research. What kinds of things do you do?
I am pursuing a Marine Science degree at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo. In South Dakota, my home state, I gained valuable experience in aquaculture and fisheries surveying, with a focus on data collection from lakes and ponds. I am dedicated to further developing my skills in marine science and raising awareness about environmental issues and the health of our oceans.
What sparked your initial interest in your career?
As a child, I played a Wii game called Endless Ocean: Blue World, which let me explore the ocean as if I were actually there. I was fascinated by the depths of the ocean and would often ask myself, "What else could be down there?" This sparked my curiosity and led me to reading and watching programs about the ocean, which further fueled my interest. These experiences inspired me to pursue a Marine Science degree and a career in deep-sea exploration.
Who influenced you or encouraged you the most?
My parents have always supported my passion for the ocean. They took me to aquariums, taught me how to snorkel, and helped me get SCUBA certified, which allowed me to dive in the oceans that I so loved. They have also fully supported my decision to attend the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo to pursue my Marine Science degree. Their encouragement has played a huge role in fueling my love for the sea and inspiring me to explore it further.
What element of your work/study do you think is the most fascinating?
The most exciting thing I’ve learned is that ocean exploration isn’t just for those living on the coast, but also for people from landlocked areas like me. I’ve also been fascinated by deep-sea gigantism and how we’ve barely scratched the surface of organisms affected by this phenomenon. While exploring these depths is challenging, I believe that one day we will see more deep-sea explorations in the Antarctic, and it will lead to even more astonishing and groundbreaking discoveries.
How did you get involved with the Ocean Exploration Trust?
I became interested in Ocean Exploration Trust after watching videos and streams of their expeditions when I was in high school. Later, while studying Marine Science at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, I learned about their SEIP program. After discovering the opportunity, I applied and was thrilled to be selected to join an expedition team, where I could gain hands-on experience and further my passion for ocean exploration.
What other jobs led you to your current career?
My journey toward a career in deep-sea exploration began with my work as a Fisheries Intern at Blue Dog Lake State Fish Hatchery, where I gained hands-on experience in water chemistry monitoring, fish transportation, and population surveys, along with maintaining and operating hatchery water systems. Following this, I worked as a Fisheries Technician with South Dakota Game Fish and Parks, where I focused on fish population surveying and field sampling. As a Marine Science student at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, I’ve further developed my skills through coursework and hands-on experiences, including SCUBA diving and underwater surveys. Volunteering for marine-related projects has also helped expand my knowledge and passion for the ocean. These combined roles and experiences have provided me with technical and practical skills necessary to pursue my career in deep-sea exploration.
What are your degrees and certifications?
Current Undergraduate Student majoring in Marine Science with a minor in Chemistry at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo (Expected graduation: May 2026); SCUBA Open Water Diver Certification; SCUBA Rescue Diver Certification; SCUBA DAN Diver First Aid Pro Certification; SCUBA Master Diver Certification; SCUBA Scientific Diver Certification
What are your hobbies?
I love fishing, diving, playing games, or simply enjoying the outdoors. I also have a passion for gardening and hydroponics. One of my biggest passions is volunteering, and I enjoy giving back to the community.
What advice would you give someone who wants to have a career like yours?
From my personal experience, the best advice I can give is to keep moving forward, no matter the obstacles. Growing up in a rural, landlocked state, this career often felt like a distant dream. I faced many doubts from others and encountered more challenges than I anticipated. Whether it was being away from home or struggling with school, there were tough times. However, all of that is part of the journey, and it's completely normal. The key is to keep pushing forward, and once you master that, you're on the right path.
