Jess joins Quark with over 25 years of experience spanning polar science support, marine research, helicopter crew, adventure guiding, and experiential education. She has spent 15 years working with the U.S. Antarctic Program at all three research stations, including six years aboard the marine research vessels, along with ten field seasons in Alaska and two in Greenland.
An avid outdoor enthusiast, Jess has completed extensive leadership training and led groups in sea kayaking, scuba diving, whitewater kayaking and rafting, rock climbing, high-altitude mountaineering, backpacking, mountain biking, and sailing. Her expeditions have taken her across the globe to all seven continents and five oceans — with one of her greatest achievements being completing an Ironman Triathlon.
Jess also has a deep passion for marine life and has participated in numerous wildlife surveys and monitoring projects throughout the Southern Ocean, South Pacific, and Alaska. She served two years in the U.S. Peace Corps as a Marine Science Conservation Educator in Western Samoa.
On the research front, Jess has contributed to and supported the U.S. Ice Drilling Program with projects in Antarctica, Greenland, and Canada. With her diverse skill set and extensive field experience, she brings a wealth of knowledge, enthusiasm, and dedication to the polar regions and marine environment.
Jess graduated from Eckerd College with a degree in Marine Biology.
