In his role as a community development officer at the Island Institute, Sam uses his aquaculture expertise to provide sea farms with the technical assistance they need to transition their businesses away from fossil fuels. In addition to the assessment of greenhouse gas emissions in the marine sector, he assists with clean energy projects including the adaptation of electric outboard motors for working waterfront applications.

Sam comes to the Island Institute with an undergraduate degree in wildlife ecology from the University of Maine as well as two master’s degrees—in education and in ocean food systems from University of Southern Maine and University of New England respectively. Born, raised, and educated in Maine, Sam has worked as a high school science teacher in Portland and as the farm director at Mere Point Oyster Company.

Sam currently lives with his wife, children, and dog on Peaks Island. He enjoys spending time outdoors—back-country canoeing, hiking, camping, gardening, and having fun with his kids.