What is your job on the ship? Ablebodied Seaman. I stand the 4–8 watch on the bridge. I also run all of the ship's cranes and winches. Plus I get to run the Avon (inflatable boat) during Alvin operations, as well as the A-frame.

How long have you worked on Atlantis? Since 1997. I also worked with Alvin on the ship we had before Atlantis (Atlantis II). Timing is key. I ended up on the Atlantis through a friend who was working part-time on Atlantis. I had just finished up a seasonal job and was sleeping in late when the port office at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution called and asked me to ship out for 3–4 months. I worked with Wayne Bailey, and everything clicked. He really took me under his wing and showed me everything. You'd be hard-pressed to find anyone better. I could have easily picked another construction job, but this just clicked. I never want to go to a job where I have to drive to work. When I go home, I have two months to myself. It's great. People think it's restrictive — four months on, two off, but I love it. NO time constraints when I'm home (other than the reporting date). I get home to do the things I really want to be home for — like antique car and motorcycle shows. I get to travel a lot and see things that no one else gets to see. It's great!

Where are you from? I was born in Massachusetts and I live there now, but I have also lived in Oregon and California.

What is the most unusual thing you have seen on a cruise? P. J. Leonard dressing up as Britney Spears on Halloween (this is also the scariest thing)

What's the strangest thing you've ever eaten? The first time I tried squid was weird, but I like it now. Squid pizza is definitely odd.

What is the scariest thing that has ever happened to you? Not much really scares me. I'm pretty even- keeled, not much really bothers me. I've seen really close calls that caused a moment's concern, but nothing major.

If you didn't have this job, what would be your next job of choice? Going back into the music business as a roadie for a rock band. My real dream job would be to restore antique cars and motorcycles.

What's the hardest thing you've ever had to endure? Being away from home, my family, and friends for so long. Trying to not gain weight when the food's so good. It's hard to get motivated to work out.

Where's the coolest place you have ever been? Why? I'd have to say Easter Island. I'd always wanted to go there and see the Moais that are on the island. I've been there twice.