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Meet Dylan Amyes

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Meet Dylan Amyes

Dylan Amyes running

What is your job title?

Electronics Technician

What do you study and why is it important?

I help operate and support predominately the Ocean Geology equipment but I am also involved with the maintenance and repair of the Vessel and Ocean Atmosphere equipment. It is important as if something breaks down it means there can be no research done, meaning the voyage may have been worthless.

What will you be doing on the voyage?

This is my first voyage with NIWA so I will be learning the intricacies of each piece of equipment and also how to operate much of it.

Where were you educated?

I initially trained at Canterbury University, but left to join the army. In the army I trained to be an electronics technician at:

  • CIT
  • HMNZS Tamaki (naval base) and
  • WELTEC in Petone

How did you become interested in the ocean?

I grew up next to the beach and spent my entire youth there, either fishing, swimming, surfing, Surf life saving, or exploring.

Do you get seasick? And if so, any tips on how not to?

I haven’t got seasick yet but I haven’t been very far from shore either. Normally I find keeping busy helps keep your mind off it

What do you enjoy about your work?

The diversity and challenges it provides. Also I get to see some amazing things.

What are some of the challenges you face?

Learning the routine of a voyage, learning the equipment, making sure everything still operates to ensure the science can continue.

What have you learned/discovered? What do you hope to learn?

I have learnt working on a ship, even when it is tied alongside, is a lot harder than working on land, and that corrosion causes a large number of problems.

I hope to learn more about geology as it is my primary function and to experience what the other science groups do so I can have a greater understanding of the things around us.

How do you spend your spare time?

I spend my time playing with my children, running, reading, swimming, and any sports. Also I like to make things for the house or car.

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