The Blue Economy is not only driven by research vessels, policy frameworks, and scientific reports. It is also shaped by those who communicate, engage, and connect people to the ocean turning knowledge into action through storytelling and outreach.
In this edition of our interview series, we’re speaking with Kendra Nelson, a marine conservationist and communications professional working with environmental nonprofits in the Pacific Northwest. Her work focuses on translating complex marine issues into accessible messages, helping communities understand and protect ecosystems like the Salish Sea.
Meet Kendra Nelson
- Current Role: Communications Manager, SeaChange Marine Conservation Society
- Industry: Marine Conservation, Environmental Communication, Nonprofit Sector
- Focus Areas: Orcas, salmon, nearshore ecosystems, public outreach, conservation communication
- Platforms: Nonprofit organisations, community engagement, digital outreach
What inspired you to pursue this path?
Kendra’s passion for marine conservation started early, long before her professional career.
“Since I was a toddler, I was obsessed with orcas and wanted to work with them my whole life.”
This fascination stayed with her through school and into university, where she studied marine science and worked with reef fishes and corals. But her path into conservation truly began with action.
Attending a beach cleanup sparked a deeper involvement. What started as participation quickly turned into organisation, education, and advocacy.
“I started sharing educational information on my social media… it snowballed from there.”
Over time, she combined her scientific background with communication skills, eventually moving into full-time roles within environmental nonprofits, helping translate science into stories that inspire change.
A Day in the Life
Kendra’s work is dynamic and varied, with no two days looking the same.
Much of her time is spent designing communication materials such as pamphlets, brochures, and signage, alongside coordinating events, managing emails, and attending meetings. She also participates in conferences, workshops, and outreach events.
During warmer months, her role becomes more community-facing.
“I spend lots of days at outreach events, connecting with communities and the public to talk about the work we do.”
In addition to her full-time role, she serves as a Board Director for two nonprofit organisations, contributing to strategic and behind-the-scenes decision-making.
Her work also includes developing new projects — from researching topics like introduced algae species in the Salish Sea to applying for funding and building collaborations.
The Exciting and Challenging Aspects of the Job
Kendra has experienced both field-based and office-based roles, and values the diversity of experiences.
From conducting reef transects with students to canoeing the Fraser River headwaters, fieldwork has provided memorable moments. Today, she especially enjoys opportunities to engage with communities and contribute to hands-on conservation activities like eelgrass transplanting.
“I love creating outreach materials and connecting people to the underwater world.”
At the same time, working in the nonprofit sector comes with challenges particularly when it comes to funding.
“Funding often fluctuates, causing stress within organisations.”
Balancing multiple responsibilities across communication, project development, and governance roles also requires adaptability and strong organisation.
Key Skills for Success
Kendra highlights a mix of technical and interpersonal skills as essential in her field.
Technical Skills:
Project management
Grant writing
Design tools (e.g. Adobe software)
Scientific knowledge and species identification
Basic coding
Soft Skills:
Time management
Strong communication and people skills
Adaptability
Ability to navigate complex or controversial topics
“Knowing how to communicate difficult topics on the spot is really important in this work.”
Work-Life Balance & Career Satisfaction
Kendra expresses satisfaction with both her income and her work-life balance.
Her current role reflects her skills and experience, while also allowing enough flexibility and time off to maintain a healthy balance, something that can be challenging in the nonprofit sector.
Future Outlook: Where is the Industry Heading?
Kendra sees communications roles continuing to grow in importance within the environmental sector.
“Communications roles are becoming more common, even in smaller nonprofits.”
As organisations recognise the need to engage wider audiences, the ability to communicate science effectively will become increasingly valuable.
Looking ahead, she aims to take on greater leadership responsibilities, with the long-term goal of becoming an Executive Director of an NGO.
Career Advice for Aspiring Professionals
Kendra encourages aspiring professionals to stay open and persistent.
“Follow your passion and push through the struggles. Be open to new things and take opportunities that you may not have immediately considered before.”
Her journey shows that careers in the Blue Economy are often non-linear, and that unexpected opportunities can play a key role in shaping meaningful paths.
Follow Kendra’s Work
- Instagram: @intertidalkendy
Stay tuned for more inspiring interviews with professionals shaping the future of the Blue Economy!
📢 Know someone with an exciting career in marine sciences or the Blue Economy? Let us know—we’d love to feature them!