Craig Elder, electronics engineer technologist

Meet Craig Elder: Electronics Engineering Technologist

Craig is one of the ROV ROPOS team members on board the RV Thompson. As an electronics engineering technologist he designs, constructs and programs electrical systems that operate highly complex technology like the hydraulic and navigation systems for ROPOS. He also designed the electrical system for the Spider Probe that will be used to map possible temperature variations on the sulfide structures on the sea floor. Craig was born in Jasper, Alberta, Canada, and moved to Ucluelet as he entered the sixth grade. It was in this small fishing and logging village that his early relationship with the water began.. Eventually, his love of physics, math, electronics and computers led him to the Electronic Engineering Technology Program at Camosun College and the University of Victoria.

Craig began to search for a way to unite his love of the oceans with his academic pursuits and finally, in 1989, he began combining oceanography with electronics.

As part of his profession, Craig has had the opportunity to travel to Europe and the Arctic and has also worked in Newfoundland on submersible vehicles. His job requires him to work long hours in harsh environments and at great distances from land. This doesn't discourage Craig. He loves the challenge because his work is exciting and he gets to meet and work with people from all over the world. He also gets to work with great teams on scientific expeditions such as this one.

Craig Elder says: Life is a real intellectual challenge and you must try to balance all the complexities and make it work the best way you can.

-- Omi Escayg