Wayne McFee, MS, is an invaluable part of the College of Charleston’s graduate community through his leadership in the Coastal Marine Mammal Assessments Program at NOAA’s Hollings Marine Laboratory. With a deep-rooted history in marine science, McFee’s work focuses on using marine mammals as indicators of coastal ocean health through research on contaminants and animal surveillance. While McFee does not currently teach graduate courses, his mentorship and hands-on opportunities for students provide crucial real-world experience that bridges academia and marine research.
A Career Dedicated to Marine Mammal Science
McFee’s career path has been defined by his passion for marine life. He began his journey with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) as a fishery biologist in 1987, later transitioning to the New England Aquarium, where he worked as a seal trainer. This experience set the foundation for his future endeavors in marine mammal research.
In 1991, McFee took on the role of environmental quality manager at the South Carolina Department of Environmental Control, a position that allowed him to explore environmental conservation on a larger scale. His return to NMFS in 1993 marked the beginning of his focus on marine mammal strandings. Since then, McFee has played a pivotal role in leading the response to marine mammal strandings and currently heads the Coastal Marine Mammal Assessments Program.
Research Opportunities for Graduate Students
Although McFee does not teach within the College of Charleston’s programs, he offers graduate students unique opportunities to participate in meaningful research. Students can engage with the Coastal Marine Mammal Assessments Program and volunteer in projects involving marine mammal strandings, necropsies, and public relations. These experiences are not limited to those formally enrolled in McFee’s program, opening the door for all graduate students with an interest in marine mammal science to gain hands-on experience in a field that’s critical to understanding coastal ecosystem health.
Students participating in the NOAA program gain exposure to various research topics, including marine mammal pathogens, habitat distribution using drones, microbiome and microplastic research, and life history studies. These emerging areas provide students with insight into how marine mammals can serve as sentinels for larger environmental changes—a vital perspective in today’s rapidly changing climate.
A Legacy of Student Success
Wayne McFee has seen over 25 years of success stories come out of the marine mammal program. A staggering 90% of the graduate students who have passed through the program are now working in marine science positions within the government or private sector. One such success is Leslie Burdett (Hart), an alumna of the MES program (2003). Leslie’s research focused on marine mammal interactions with crab pot fisheries, and after her graduation, she was hired by NOAA. She later completed a PhD at MUSC, returned to NOAA, and now serves as a tenured professor at the College of Charleston, specializing in skin disorders and lesions of dolphins. Her story exemplifies the depth of opportunities that McFee’s program fosters for graduate students.
Advice for Aspiring Marine Mammal Scientists
When asked for advice for prospective students, McFee emphasizes the importance of persistence. “Volunteer whenever you get the chance. Attend conferences to make those contacts for future employment,” he says. His message is clear: opportunities are out there for those who are dedicated and proactive. The marine mammal field is competitive, but with the right attitude and experience, success is within reach.
Wayne McFee’s extensive experience and commitment to marine mammal research make him a distinguished figure in the marine sciences, and his willingness to mentor the next generation of scientists ensures his legacy will continue for many years to come. For graduate students interested in marine mammal research, his program offers a wealth of opportunity for growth, development, and career success.
Interested in learning more? Connect with NOAA’s Coastal Marine Mammal Assessments Program to discover how you can get involved and kickstart your career in marine science!
