Mike Matson: On navigating deep waters

Q What did you want to be when you were growing up?

I don’t recall having specific career interests during my younger days. I never thought deeply about pursuing a particular occupation. Yet, I was always drawn to the ocean, and anything nearby. I had this immense connection with the sea, the beach, and the salty waves – my love for the ocean was strong and undeniable. After secondary school, it was only fitting that I chose a career that aligned with my passion for the ocean. I pursued a degree in oceanography, which set me on a path towards a fulfilling career in the marine industry sector as an oceanographer.

Q What does your role as a MetOcean Survey Manager involve?

I support RPS in delivering metocean measurement projects to clients across Australia and internationally. My role involves managing a large suite of metocean equipment and providing essential support to our technical team.

The work is diverse and dynamic. It ranges from hands-on tasks like setting up equipment in our workshop or out in the field, to desk-based activities such as planning and organising projects, interpreting data, and producing scientific measurement reports. This blend of responsibilities keeps my job both challenging and exciting.

Q Why did you want to become an oceanographer?

Oceanography is an exciting field that spans the deep waters of our oceans, and it makes me feel like an explorer. In my work, I get to investigate and research our marine world using specialised equipment. This enables me to collect data that reveals how the oceans behave and helps us understand their impact on people and the planet.   

This is a stimulating field where we use cutting-edge technology to gather and interpret data about oceanic processes. Being an oceanographer fuels my passion for learning, whether it’s mastering new instruments or analysing and interpreting complex data.

Q What’s particularly satisfying about your work?

Travelling around Australia and the world is one of the job’s great perks. I lead an intrepid lifestyle, working with people from diverse backgrounds. It’s definitely not a desk job, and there’s never a dull moment.

Q What’s the most fascinating thing you’ve done in your career / work?

For RPS, I’ve deployed extensive instrumentation worldwide, achieving great success in delivering reliable data that our clients can trust to understand the marine environments they operate in. My fascination lies in retrieving and analysing the data, and uncovering insights that show what’s been happening. I examine whether our findings  align with expectations, make sense,  and reveal any intriguing occurrences.

Q Can you think of a particular project that stands out?

Working on the Tanzania Gas Project Metocean Survey by Statoil (Tanzania) was a standout experience for me, especially as it was one of my first international trips.  Our team mobilised equipment and remained deployed for 15 months to develop a field in 2600m of water.

The project was particularly challenging due to the area’s strong deep-water currents, some of the fiercest in the world. Despite the challenges, the operations were incredibly rewarding, thanks to a supportive and highly skilled team. The experience allowed me to explore new places and meet fascinating people from around the world. It was great fun.