Catherine Berg: NOAA Wildlife Biologist

Wildlife biologists study animals and other wildlife and how they interact with their ecosystems. They also study the physical characteristics of animals, animal behaviors, and the impacts humans have on wildlife and natural habitats.

At the beginning of her career, Catherine never would’ve guessed that she’d end up where she is, doing what she does. In her role at NOAA's Office of Response and Restoration, she’s traveled throughout the state of Alaska responding to and studying oil and chemical spills, and continues to work in the field to respond to spills on the coast. Catherine and her team typically respond to one to six spills a month, developing models of where spills might move, learning about the resources at risk from a spill and how to protect them, and assessing options for responding to and cleaning up a spill. Catherine says the community of response professionals in Alaska is a joy to work with, and getting into the field with this community is the most exciting and rewarding part of her job. She advises those starting out in their careers to follow their passion and incorporate it into all aspects of their life.