皇家华人

By: Jess Van Vaerenbergh, 皇家华人 CMS graduate student

Gregory Berman has always been fascinated by the ocean鈥攏ot by the charismatic megafauna like dolphins and whales, but by the grains of sand beneath his feet. As a child, he would scoop handfuls of sand, marveling at their diversity and pondering where they may have originated. He took that curiosity for sediments and became a geological oceanographer. 

While earning his master鈥檚 degree at the 皇家华人 College of Marine Science (CMS), Berman studied under David Naar, associate dean and professor of geological oceanography, investigating a geophysical phenomenon just north of Egmont Key in Tampa Bay. 

Since graduating from CMS in 2002, Berman has dedicated himself to protecting and enhancing the economic, environmental, and cultural benefits of local natural resources. His work focuses on preserving their quality and abundance for future generations, ensuring that these vital assets remain sustainable and accessible for years to come.

鈥淕reg is a shining example of how the College of Marine Science prepares our students for diverse career paths,鈥� said Naar. 鈥淚t has been a pleasure to watch him grow as a marine scientist and apply the skills he learned at the college to a career focused on helping people in coastal communities.鈥�

Berman's background includes working for the (USGS) and other federal roles in 皇家华人 and Hawaii. Berman spent fourteen years as a coastal processes specialist for the and the . At WHOI, he was responsible for enhancing coastal community resilience to climate change and coastal hazards. Today, Berman is the director of natural resources for the Town of Chatham, Massachusetts.

We connected with Berman to discuss his career journey and some memorable times at 皇家华人. The following has been edited for clarity.

Q.     What first led you to pursue your graduate degree at the 皇家华人 College of Marine Science?

A.      My academic journey led me to Eckerd College, just a short drive from the 皇家华人 College of Marine Science. During my undergraduate years, I had the chance to engage with 皇家华人鈥檚 faculty and students, as well as collaborate with USGS. These experiences solidified my decision to pursue graduate studies at 皇家华人, where I could immerse myself in cutting-edge marine science on the beautiful Bayboro Harbor peninsula.

Q.     During your time at CMS, what are some of the most valuable things you learned?  Are there particular experiences that stand out to you?

A.      From the beginning, my professors encouraged me to pursue hands-on research and travel opportunities. I became a science diver and participated in as many research cruises as possible鈥攕ometimes just barely balancing coursework with fieldwork.

My experiences ranged from local expeditions along the West-Central 皇家华人 coast to multi-day research trips to the Dry Tortugas, often resupplying in Key West. One of the most unforgettable experiences was a 40-day cruise mapping microplates and conducting geological sampling, with the crew change taking place on Easter Island. These invaluable opportunities shaped my career and deepened my passion for coastal science and travel.

Q.     How did your education and training at CMS prepare you for a career in coastal resilience?

A.      Beyond the core foundation in oceanography, my thesis research introduced me to geophysical instruments and GIS鈥攕kills that became key discussion points in job interviews. Over time, my role evolved from collecting data in the field to managing projects and leading teams focused on adapting to our ever-changing shorelines.

That early hands-on technical training has been essential in understanding the challenges and opportunities in coastal resilience today. 

Q.   Did you always know this would be your career path?

A.      Absolutely not! My career has been a journey shaped by unexpected opportunities and strategic pivots. After graduate school, I worked for the USGS in both St. Petersburg and Hawaii before transitioning to a private firm specializing in government contracts in Newport, Rhode Island. Over the years, I took on new challenges鈥攎oving from a marine science technician to an environmental analyst, earning my professional geologist certification, and eventually stepping into project management.

Later, I joined the Sea Grant program at WHOI. I spent 15 years providing technical assistance to stakeholders across the region, improving resilience on everything from individual projects to statewide initiatives. Now, I focus on a single community, leading a diverse team that manages conservation, coastal resources, health, shellfish, and harbormaster services. It鈥檚 been an incredible journey, and every step has contributed to where I am today.

Q. What excites you about your current job for the Town of Chatham, Massachusetts?

A. In previous roles, I provided technical assistance on projects throughout the region, but these interactions were often brief, with limited opportunities for follow-up.  Now, I can see coastal projects through from conception to construction.

As director of natural resources, I oversee the town鈥檚 shoreline management, waterfront infrastructure, and marine resources, ensuring that coastal resilience is a core component of our strategy. Every bit of public access is precious in a town where waterfront real estate is highly valued. This role allows me to implement new approaches to protecting at-risk coastal resources while enhancing the community鈥檚 resilience to climate change.

Q.     What advice would you give a current grad student at CMS who is interested in a similar career?

A.      Don鈥檛 be afraid to pivot. Embrace career changes that challenge you and help you grow. Your interests and priorities will evolve over time鈥攚hat excites you at 20 or 30 may not be the same at 40 or 50. Stay open to new opportunities, and you鈥檒l find the path that鈥檚 right for you.