Bridget’s career has spanned academic biomedical research, government-led biotechnology development, and nonprofit work at the intersection of biotechnology and conservation. As the CEO of Designer Ecosystems, Bridget approaches the field of ecosystem restoration with a commitment to advancing innovative solutions that serve humans as well as wildlife. She is responsible for overseeing the development of the ReefStarter vision from the lab to a viable commercial product.

Tom is a Professor and Dean of the College of Marine Science at the University of South Florida. Prior to his arrival at USF, he was Director of the School of Natural Resources and Environment at the University of Florida and served also as Chief Science Officer for the State of Florida. Tom helps design and supervises all ecology research related to the development of ReefStarter as a replacement reef habitat.

Monty is the Director of the Florida Institute of Oceanography, coordinating marine science research and engineering across Florida universities, conservation organizations, and commercial industries. Throughout his career, he has leveraged over $300 million in private, philanthropic, state and federal funds for the development of ocean science and technology infrastructure and research. He oversees ReefStarter commercial development for a range of industries.

Cindy Lewis is the Director of FIO’s Keys Marine Lab and has been a lead Staff Scientist since 2008. She has a Ph.D. from Florida International University, where she studied coral stress, bleaching, and disease. Cindy is an active member of the marine science community, serving on various advisory councils and committees. She is also a certified dive master and a dedicated community leader. Cindy conducts all ecological studies on ReefStarter structures and leads associated ecosystem restoration activities.

Pete is the Chief Operating Officer at Designer Ecosystems. Prior to joining, he served as Deputy Director at Revive & Restore, where he led initiatives to advance cutting-edge biotechnologies for conservation and ecosystem restoration. Pete’s specialty is program management and business development for first-of-its-kind advanced technologies, particularly those aimed at addressing national and global energy challenges.

Robert is an Associate Professor in the Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences at Florida Institute of Technology. His research includes real-time coastal modeling of waves and water levels, coastal flooding and transport, living shoreline/living dock design, and coastal eco-engineering. He is the inventor of the ReefStarter breakwater structure and leads all prototype design and testing for specific ReefStarter installations.

Stephen is a Professor in the Department of Ocean Engineer and Marine Sciences at Florida Institute of Technology, and is a licensed mechanical engineer specializing in design. He has worked in physical oceanography conducting deep-sea mooring deployments and data analysis. He leads offshore construction planning and execution for ReefStarter installation projects.