15 September 2017 R/V Sikuliaq Polar Profile: Dr Steve Okkonen

Steve is an oceanographer and works for the University of Alaska Fairbanks. He and his wife and their two dogs live in Kasilof, Alaska. He received his engineering degree at the University of Michigan. Steve then earned his teaching certification at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. He taught math and science in elementary and high school classes for eight years before going back to school and obtaining his PhD in physical oceanography, also at the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF). On this research cruise Steve is most interested to learn how the temperature, salinity, and currents might influence the distribution, in time and space, of zooplankton, fish and belugas.

As a physical oceanographer on the ship, his role is to measure and record the temperature, salinity and currents in our study area. Professionally he’s most interested in learning how the temperature, salinity and current variables might influence the distribution, in time and space, of zooplankton, fish and beluga whales. His most essential tool on the trip is his laptop computer.

Personally Steve is very excited to have the opportunity to work with the team and use the Sikuliaq as a research platform! He was onboard the R/V Sikuliaq previously, in September of 2014, off the coast of Puerto Rico along with Dr. Llopiz and Dr. Ashjian. That trip's focus was to test the oceanographic equipment used with the winch as part of an equipment sea trial.

Getting To Know You!

Steve’s most essential personal items that are “Must-haves” on the ship include an array of snack foods including: Original Red Vines, Gummy Bears, Big Red Chewing Gum (helpful when feeling off during rough seas). He's also looking forward to baked goods on the ship, as well as any and all candy or beef jerky donations! When I asked Steve for his favorite healthy and unhealthy foods, he gave me a list. “Bacon, donuts and old world red wines”. I think depending on the emotions of the day, those foods can be considered healthy or unhealthy.

What will he miss most while at sea? “I’ll miss my wife, Joann and our two dogs, Chief and Gizmo.”

What Profession Did You See Yourself In As a Child?

When Steve was in elementary and middle school he thought he would like to become an astronaut or a scientist when he grew up. I asked him what the deciding factor was in choosing his present profession as an oceanographer. With a smile he replied, “I needed a break from teaching!"

Favorites?

Steve's favorite book is Dr. Desoto by William Steig. Favorite movie? Blade Runner directed by Ridley Scott.

Can you eat more bacon than Steve O?

“I think I could take him.”

Favorite quote?

“I’d be a vegetarian if bacon grew on trees.” by Homer Simpson

Fun/interesting/strange fact?

“Fun/interesting and strange facts should probably not be mentioned.”