Lydia earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from California State University Maritime (Cal Maritime Academy) and a minor in Marine Science. She is from a small town on the Central Coast of California and her career in the maritime industry has moved her through many sectors including non-profit ocean conservation organizations, local government air quality agencies, corporations and starting her own business (Enriching STEM Society). The ocean is very important to Lydia and she spends her free time enjoying the waves. Her favorite ocean animal is the whale shark. Lydia is excited to be part of Ocean Conservancy where she is committed to the mission of ensuring a healthy ocean and protecting the wildlife and communities that depend on it.