Karen Martinez

Tell us about your work/research. What kinds of things do you do?

My background is in subsea construction and decommissioning.

What sparked your initial interest in your career?

I started out in the world of ROVs because I love electronics and robots. It's really fun working subsea, building things as well as cutting out platforms that are no longer in use.

Who influenced you or encouraged you the most?

I had an electronics teacher in college who was really interesting and always encouraged side projects and extra thinking.

What element of your work/study do you think is the most fascinating?

I find the most fascinating the scale of how big subsea structures really are and how much one ROV can effect a change to that structure

What other jobs led you to your current career?

I was a little lost in college to be honest. I sort of fell into ROV pilot after taking many electronics and mechatronics classes. ROV pilot was the first real job I had.

What are your degrees and certifications?

Associates in Mechantronics

What are your hobbies?

I'm into table tennis and salsa dancing. I also enjoy cooking and playing the piano. I have my pilots license but haven't been flying in a while. I enjoy studying new languages.

What advice would you give someone who wants to have a career like yours?

If you want to be an ROV pilot, having good spacial awareness is key. Knowing where the ROV is located relative to subsea structures and assets as well as the vessel is important.