Dragonfly Pond Works Careers: Meet Sammi, Lake Dredging Technician
Sammi is a Florida Dredging Technician, skilled at pump dredging and shoreline restoration. In addition to working full-time with Dragonfly, Sammi is currently pursuing a degree in Marine Biology.
What led to your interest in this field and particularly in working for Dragonfly?
I’m really interested in the environment and specifically marine life; I’m studying Marine Biology and Photography at State College of Florida. I appreciate how Dragonfly and this work is so ecofriendly. I like being able to make a difference in the health of lakes and ponds for the community and the wildlife. I also enjoy being able to work outside, especially in the water. Dragonfly and my crew leader are great at providing me with hands on learning opportunities to continue to learn new skills.
What does your average work day look like?
I work from 7-5, sometimes 6. The pump dredging I do is usually part of shoreline restoration projects. I operate the dredge while in the water which pumps sediment from the lake bottom into geotextile bags along the shoreline we are restoring. My teammate makes sure that the pumped sediment is filling the bags correctly. The sediment dries and is then graded to create a natural and safe slope to restore the damaged shoreline. After work I study for upcoming assignments and complete my coursework.
Tell us a bit about your educational goals and how you balance work and school?
My focus is sharks and killer whales and after graduating I’m going to continue and get my Master’s Degree. I hope to get a shot at working with people from the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) and see the Great Barrier Reef before it’s gone. I would really like to learn from the perspective of AIMS’ Cetologists (Orca Marine Biologist). Dragonfly understands the importance of school and helps me excel by working around my testing schedule.
What has been your favorite project?
My favorite project was at a site in Tarpon Springs. I was able to work right alongside dolphins and manatees. I love getting to see and be around marine life while working.
Sammi rescued a turtle from getting run over while on site at a golf course.
What has been your proudest moment with Dragonfly?
My proudest moment so far was a Sarasota HOA lake shoreline restoration project. A variety of wildlife live near or in the several different lakes within the community. I set a Dragonfly record by pumping enough sediment to restore 345 feet of shoreline in one day.
What do you like most about working for Dragonfly?
Dragonfly has always made me feel very accepted and as though I’m part of a huge family.
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Dragonfly Pond Works provides stormwater, pond, and lake management throughout the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic. Our team has the certification, formal education, and expertise to manage any pond, lake, or stormwater system. We have decades of experience proving to clients that we are the aquatic management experts.