Kalen Mawer | Executive Director
Kalen first joined ECW in 2018 while studying marine biology at UNBSJ, and stayed on because of the diversity of projects and their positive impact. In particular, Kalen likes to work in our local Marine Protected Area, and hopes most to contribute meaningfully to maintaining healthy marine ecosystems throughout southwest NB and beyond. Outside the office, Kalen is an avid hiker, knitter, and likes to read post-apocalyptic fiction.
Karl Whelan | Operations Manager
Karl has been employed with ECW since 2005 as our lab manager, running our microbiology lab and leading our marine water quality initiatives. His education includes a B. Sc. (Biology) and an advanced diploma in aquaculture. He spent eleven years in the salmon industry prior to working at ECW. Karl enjoys hunting and woodworking in his spare time.
Michelle O’Hanley | Office Manager
With over 10 years of experience as ECW’s Office Manager, Michelle skillfully manages financial reporting to the board of directors and project funders as well as maintaining accounts payable, receivable, and payroll for the organization. She ensures smooth office operations with her robust knowledge of non-profit requirements and environmental project activities. Known to be out in the field, you may spot her driving our Carolina skiff or collecting water samples. Outside of work she enjoys fishing and watching true crime documentaries.
Brian Goggin | Farm Manager
Brian has been working with ECW since 2021 to develop our indoor farming initiative. His roots in marine biology and history of working at the Huntsman Marine Science Center kindled a passion for nature and sustainable aquaculture. In 2020, he joined the Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) Laboratory at UNBSJ and earned his Master of Science degree studying crop selection in aquaponic systems. Now he is applying his experience with controlled environment agriculture to create an indoor hydronic farm that will supply Charlotte County with leafy greens and herbs year-round. Brian loves being out on the water, whale watching, and live music.
Charlotte Bartlett | Project Biologist
Charlotte grew up in Saint Andrews until she studied Biology and Music at UNB Fredericton where she completed the Marine Block semester and a Masters degree in Biology, studying the effects of climate change on Atlantic Salmon. Her upbringing and education have instilled a passion for aquatic systems. She is enthusiastic to contribute to the health and sustainability of local aquatic environments through her work with the Integrated Watershed Monitoring Program and other Aquatic Sciences Projects. Outside of work, Charlotte can be found sailing her 22 ft sailboat or singing songs at a local pub.
Victoria Ruigrok | Project Biologist
With a background in environmental science and a strong connection to the coast, Victoria has been working in New Brunswick’s environmental sector since 2018. Originally from Saint John, she holds a BSc in Environmental and Natural Resources from UNB Fredericton, specializing in Water Resource Management, Marine Biology, and Fish Biology. Her long-standing interest in the marine environment – especially human impacts and climate change – has led her back to marine conservation after time spent working in freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems. She’s excited to support ECW’s ongoing marine research and conservation initiatives. In her free time, Victoria enjoys camping, hiking, and exploring the Maritimes.
Crystal Hiltz | QUALITY CONTROL COORDINATOR & LAB TECHNICIAN
Crystal grew up in Nova Scotia where she developed a love of the ocean and community. She studied biology at Mount Allison University with a focus in marine algae, before moving to New Brunswick and working in marine invertebrate biodiversity and taxonomy. Crystal was drawn to ECW by shared values and commitment to meaningful, community-based initiatives. As a part of the ECW Laboratory, Crystal performs bacterial analysis of drinking water and microbiological testing of seawater in shellfish growing areas.
James Dick | Farm Technician
James joined our team in 2024 to provide support for our new indoor hydroponic farm.
Ryan MacDonald | Environmental Technician
Ryan joined us in 2025 to support our field team in our data collection work.