We had the opportunity to chat with Tonya Ste. Marie, a Surveillance Officer from the National Aerial Surveillance Program (NASP). We gained insight into the day-to-day experiences of those who help protect our oceans and more.
Born in Owen Sound, Ontario, Tonya Ste. Marie now resides in Gibson, British Columbia. With a background in social work and certifications in emergency management, Tonya brings her specialized set of skills to the NASP team.
What was your most exciting day on the job?
My first time flying over the Arctic. It was an incredible opportunity to witness the breathtaking landscape from above!
What does a usual day look like?
An eventful day would be a day in which we have multiple taskings to overfly. The addition of observing mystery spills throughout the flight (our record is 14 in a single flight!) and having a search and rescue call come in on top of it all - makes the day eventful!
What makes you proud of this job?
The positive impact our work has on the environment. From flood response and wildfire monitoring, to safeguarding marine protected areas, the NASP team is dedicated to being the eyes in the sky, observing and reporting vital information.
Describe life inside a NASP plane in one word:
Busy! The team operates in a dynamic environment where multitasking is the norm. The pace is quick, reflecting the urgency and importance of the mission.
How do people respond to your job?
"Wow, that's so cool!" Being in the air and having a unique perspective on events is a rewarding experience that not everyone gets to enjoy.
Tonya encourages those considering a career in the field to embrace the unique opportunities the job presents. The ability to contribute to environmental protection, witness diverse landscapes, and make a difference every day is truly fulfilling.