January 9, 2025—As the Alvin, a submersible operated by the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute, descends, the sounds of the surface vessels and waves give way to only the mechanical “ping” of sonar. After two hours, in total darkness, Alvin finally approaches its target—hydrothermal vents in deep trenches along the floor of the sea. It’s a volatile environment here. Chimneys of stone spew searing hot seawater into the frigid surrounding waters. The pressure is more than 400 times greater than at the surface. The submersible’s external lights break the total darkness and are met not with a barren surface, but a breathtaking landscape teeming with life.
Dr. David Gallo is one of the few people on our planet to visit this extreme ecosystem and see firsthand the hundreds of species that inhabit it. A renowned oceanographer, Gallo worked at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute for 30 years, leading research expeditions including ones to map the RMS Titanic and to find the remains of Air France flight 447. This April at EasCorp’s 47th Annual Meeting and Membership Conference, he will share not only highlights of these experiences but also insights into his model of leadership, a model that allowed him to guide his crew through danger and discovery.
We are delighted that Dr. Gallo will both offer a keynote address—allowing us our own “awakening,” as he calls it—and participate in a facilitated discussion on leadership. We have no doubt he’ll wow us—his 2008 TED Talk, Underwater Astonishments, remains one of the platform’s most popular. Drawing from years of experience with independent expeditions and global partnerships, he’ll share how to develop a culture of accountability, collaboration, and curiosity, and how to manage risk, fear, or loss of confidence.
We invite you to come learn from this celebrated scientist, a pioneer in underwater exploration and passionate ocean ambassador. Stay tuned! Event registration opens in late January.