Tami Martel Crane
Tami Martel is a dedicated STEM educator and coral restoration technician with a deep-rooted passion for marine life. Ever since she was young, Tami was fascinated by the ocean and inspired by its power, which sparked her lifelong ambition to become a marine biologist. After a successful 12-year career as a dental hygienist, she returned to school to pursue her true calling, earning her Bachelor of Science in Marine Sciences at the age of 44. Her journey reflects her resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to following her dreams. Currently, Tami is a graduate student at Unity Environmental University, pursuing a Master of Science in Marine Conservation Biology while actively contributing to coral restoration and environmental education through Sea Base High Adventure and Seaside Sustainability. In her work, she combines scientific knowledge with hands-on experience to support marine conservation initiatives, educate the next generation of environmental stewards, and drive projects that enhance sustainability and ecosystem health. Her interdisciplinary background in healthcare and science has honed her organizational, communication, and leadership skills, making her an effective collaborator and problem-solver. Tami’s professional philosophy centers on perseverance, education, and impactful collaboration. She has leveraged her diverse experiences to bridge the gap between scientific research, community engagement, and practical environmental solutions. Soon, she will be relocating to the Florida Keys to continue her marine biology career, bringing her expertise, passion, and innovative approaches to protect coral reefs and marine ecosystems. Tami’s journey is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, grit, and the courage to pursue one’s true passion at any stage of life.
• Make Evidence-based Decisions Badge
• Unity Environmental University - BS
• Unity Environmental University- MS
• 4.0 GPA
• PADI
• Seaside Sustainability
• SPCA serving Erie County
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to passion, perseverance, and hard work. From a young age, I was fascinated by the ocean and its power, which inspired me to dream of becoming a marine biologist. While I spent 12 years working as a dental hygienist, I never let go of that dream. At the age of 42, I returned to school and recently earned my bachelor’s degree in marine biology & sustainable aquaculture. I am now preparing to embark on an exciting new career journey in the Florida Keys. Achieving this milestone required dedication, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to pursuing what I truly love.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is simple but powerful: “Keep your head up and keep going.” I’ve carried this guidance with me through college and into my career, and it has helped me stay focused, persevere through challenges, and continue moving forward no matter the obstacles.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Marine biology is incredibly rewarding, but it’s not easy, and difficulty doesn’t mean you don’t belong. You don’t need to feel fully confident before taking opportunities; confidence grows after you act. Get hands-on experience early, network, find mentors who support you, and don’t be discouraged if your path isn’t linear. Different life experiences don’t weaken you in this field; they make you a stronger scientist and leader. The ocean needs committed women who are willing to keep going, even under difficult circumstances.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in marine biology right now is limited funding and job stability, especially for early-career scientists, combined with the growing urgency of climate change impacts on marine ecosystems. The scale of the problems can feel overwhelming.
At the same time, that urgency creates opportunity. There is a growing need for applied science, restoration, fisheries monitoring, and science communication, work that directly informs management and engages the public. Advances in technology, community science, and interdisciplinary collaboration are also expanding how we study and protect the ocean.
The opportunity right now is to connect strong science with real-world action, and that’s where the field is headed.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are creativity, self-expression, and passion. I deeply value the arts—writing, singing, and dancing—as ways to connect with others and bring meaning to life. I also prioritize meaningful relationships, such as the partnership I share with my husband, who is an organist, and the ways we support and inspire each other in our creative pursuits.
Locations
Summerland Key
23800 Overseas Highway, Summerland Key, FL, 33042