Emily Shimada’s life changed for the better when she went back to school to study engineering and marine science. Growing up in a neighborhood riddled with gang violence presented challenges in reaching Emily’s college ambitions. Yet throughout her childhood, Emily’s heart told her to seek the ocean.

Luckily, Emily persevered and is pursuing a degree in marine engineering technology at California State University Maritime Academy. She is a recent inductee to the Tau Alpha Pi engineering technology society and a recipient of a CSU COAST Research Award. Emily served as Cadet Chief Engineer for Cal Maritime’s summer training cruise on the TS Golden Bear. Emily founded the Oceanography Club at Cal Maritime and the campus chapter of the North America Marine Environmental Protection Association.

Emily’s goal is to sail on a research vessel as a licensed engineer or marine technician. She is awed by the fast-moving technology aboard research vessels that enables researchers to investigate the critical role our oceans play in sustaining natural and economic life worldwide.