Meet Brian, our go-to problem-solver and Board Director

When we're in a tricky situation that needs addressing or if a topic comes up that needs researching, Brian is our guy. He's thorough and analytical and is determined to get to the bottom of it -- whatever it may be. For these reasons and many more, we're grateful to have Brian on our Board of Directors. Plus, he makes us all laugh on the regular. Thank you, Brian, for all your hard work for SC and please take us fjord-hopping with you when you make it to the Norwegian Sea.

Name: Brian Wold

Location: I live in the lakes region and split my work time between there and the mid-coast area

SC Role: Board of Directors

How do you spend your days? What are your passions? What is your occupation?

I spend most of my days trying to have fun and learn things. I love to understand how and why things work, how to make and fix things, and I enjoy getting to apply those learnings to whatever work I find myself doing, either professionally or personally.

Explain your connection to the ocean. How does it influence your life? I was born and raised on the Maine coast, and as a result of that I've spent a lot of my life on, in, or by the water. The ocean has been close to many of my memories and experiences, and there also seems to be an inherently human fascination and connection with the ocean (and bodies of water in general) which I'm sure factors into my relationship with it...

The mission of Saltwater Classroom is to bring together young students, as well as learners of all ages, as global ocean stewards through an innovative approach to ocean education. How does this apply to your experience? What stands out to you about ocean education? I feel that an innovative approach to education, ocean or more generally speaking, is critical to the future. Finding a diverse range of ways to engage young students, including giving them hands-on experiences, and incorporating technology into the process all play a role in developing the next generation of ocean stewards. I'm excited about the progress Saltwater Classroom has made in a few short years, there are some really smart, motivated people involved with the organization, and it feels like the organization is working towards providing a meaningful solution to a problem that has an impact on every living, breathing human!

What are your earliest ocean memories?

My earliest ocean memories consist of sailing and boating with my family. My grandparents on both sides of the family are sailors, and I spent many hours sailing on Casco Bay and in Florida. My parents would frequently take me and my siblings for day trips to Eagle Island in the summers, and that is where I became obsessed with looking for sea glass, a habit I still maintain to this day.

If you had to pick one thing, what is your favorite aspect of the ocean? We know, it's a broad question.

It is a tough question... I think it may be that there is such complexity to the ocean, and you can always learn something new about it... pretty wicked if you ask me!

Is there a dream ocean destination on your list? Where would you travel to next?

This may be harder than the last question... I've always wanted to go to the Lygen Alps in the fjords of northern Norway and the Norwegian Sea. It looks like a breathtaking place to spend time, and I'm particularly drawn to the Summit To Sea Ski touring! You can also see the Northern Lights, go dog sledding, take a whale safari, or go hiking, biking, and so much more!

Anything else to add?

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