Catalina Martinez is the Regional Program Manager for the NOAA Office of Ocean Exploration and Research (OER). She began her ocean science career with NOAA in 2002 working on ship operations and logistics, as well as education and outreach initiatives associated with expeditions to explore little known and unknown ocean areas. Ms. Martinez spent many years sailing on research vessels as Expedition Coordinator for NOAA OER, and managing multiple important collaborations and partnerships. Ms. Martinez also works on a variety of local, regional, and national efforts to help create a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive STEM workforce, and consistently seeks to increase potential for life success for individuals born to challenging circumstances. Ms. Martinez is currently participating in a temporary assignment with NOAA’s Office of Inclusion and Civil Rights, working on a variety of efforts to help expand their diversity, equity, and inclusion portfolio.