MTS Staff

Chris is an oceanographer and business development executive with 15+ years of experience building and leading complex organizations, advancing mission-driven partnerships, and guiding durable growth for a range of academic, government, and private organizations.  

Prior to joining the Marine Technology Society, Chris served in a range of leadership roles at the University of Utah spanning technology licensing and commercialization, industry partnerships, foundation & corporate philanthropy, and research administration. Before Utah, Chris served as the assistant dean and director of strategic initiatives for the School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST) at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. While in Hawaii, he was the co-founder and director of the Pacific Islands Ocean Observing System (PacIOOS). He has launched three companies and helped entrepreneurs and institutions raise more than $450 million in research and philanthropic capital.

As a researcher and principal investigator, he has published two dozen book chapters, scientific papers, and technical reports spanning marine biology, ocean physics, marine conservation, domestic policy, and operational analysis. He has extensive experience on the international stage—working across the Asia-Pacific region in partnership with APEC members, UN programs, and myriad foreign and US government agencies. He has served as a formal marine science advisor to state, territorial, and federal agencies, including as a founding member of the U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) Advisory Committee.   

Chris received his undergraduate and graduate education from the United States Military Academy at West Point (geography), the Johns Hopkins University (political theory), and the University of Hawaii (physical oceanography).

A graduate of George Mason University, Kristina has spent her career in both the non-profit and government sectors. As a member of the MTS Executive Team, the Director of Events is an integral part of the expansion and growth of all MTS events, programs, and activities, and implementation of the MTS Strategic Plan. Kristina plans and manages all MTS events and conferences, builds and develops conference infrastructure, coordinates the expansion of MTS educational events and offerings, and strengthens the MTS brand by developing programs that will create and enhance membership value. With over 12 years of professional experience, Kristina brings expansive knowledge and skills to MTS.