John Bruning
Summary
Detail-oriented Marine Scientist specializing in field data collection, scientific quality assurance, and high-volume instructional leadership. Possesses over three years of direct experience as a NOAA-affiliated Fisheries Observer, progressing rapidly into a Coordinator role responsible for training up to new hires on complex biosampling and data collection protocols. Skilled in taxonomic identification (teleost, elasmobranch, marine mammals, sea turtles) and managing logistics for specialized research programs, ensuring the highest standards of data integrity for federal objectives.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Observer Coordinator/ Secondary Safety Coordinator
A.I.S. Inc
07.2024 - Current
- Provide 24/7 safety assistance and support to all deployed and at-sea employees.
- Conduct quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) for scientific data and biological samples.
- Conduct post-trip debriefs with observers to optimize the quality and efficiency of at-sea data collection.
- Collaborate and coordinate cross-functionally with SCDNR and NOAA Fisheries staff to establish and maintain optimal data collection for the South Atlantic Deepwater Longline Project and Shark Research Fishery.
- Train new-hire employees on comprehensive data and bio-sample collection protocols and procedures, essential marine safety and at-sea survival techniques and specialized training for the South Atlantic Deepwater Longline Project and Shark Research Fishery, encompassing increased bio-sampling and complex data collection protocols.
- Inventory, organize, and track training specimens used for species identification and bio-sample collection training.
Observer II
A.I.S. Inc
04.2021 - 07.2024
- Contributed three years of dedicated service to the Panama City Observer Program while simultaneously completing cross-training in the Pelagic Observer Program, significantly broadening expertise in diverse fishery monitoring.
- Collected, proofed, and submitted high-quality, fisheries-dependent data and biological samples.
- Coordinated deployment logistics with internal staff and industry stakeholders to ensure successful observer deployments, maintain program efficiency and facilitated collaborative relationships.
- Expert in the identification and specialized sampling techniques for diverse marine fauna, including teleost fish, elasmobranchs (sharks and rays), marine mammals, and sea turtles.
Tour Guide & Beach Worker
Yolo Water Sports Inc
01.2017 - 01.2020
- Facilitated sales of jet ski and parasail rentals and demonstrated safety protocols for customers.
- Setting up and maintaining equipment in all weather conditions.
- Responsible for training and educating new beach employees.
- Seasonal
Intern
Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation
05.2019 - 08.2019
- Created and conducted an experiment involving sea grass and their relationship with lucinid clams.
- Conducted sea grass surveys; gained experience working underwater and on boats.
- Organized and identified macroalgae while learning identification techniques.
- Trained in using common lab equipment along with YSI devices.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Marine Science
Florida Gulf Coast University
Fort Myers, FL12-2020
Skills
- Marine Safety Instructor Certified
- PADI Open Water and Enriched Air Certified
- First Aid/ CPR/ AED Certified
- Marine Species Identification
- Data Collection and Analysis
- Data Entry
- Research Methodology
- Versatility
- Expertise in Fishing Techniques
- Constructive Attitude
Timeline
Observer Coordinator/ Secondary Safety Coordinator
A.I.S. Inc
07.2024 - Current
Observer II
A.I.S. Inc
04.2021 - 07.2024
Intern
Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation
05.2019 - 08.2019
Tour Guide & Beach Worker
Yolo Water Sports Inc
01.2017 - 01.2020
Bachelor of Science - Marine Science
Florida Gulf Coast University