Meet Sean Pennells
“I had a huge environmental drive during my high school and university years that ultimately encouraged me into aquaculture - and now that I’m working in the industry, it really keeps me grounded”
A university field trip to a salmon farm profoundly influenced Sean Pennells’ academic path, prompting him to switch his major from zoology to aquaculture.
Initially drawn to zoology and ecology with a minor in marine science at Otago University, Sean’s passion for the ocean and animals seemed to align perfectly with his studies.
However, his perspective shifted during a university field trip.
“We visited Big Glory Bay, a salmon farm near Stewart Island, and it was incredible,” Sean recalls, “Almost immediately after that, I switched my major to aquaculture, fisheries and oceanography.”
Sean realised that sustainable aquaculture was an environmentally friendly approach to food production and a field filled with promising career opportunities.
Sean’s academic journey was further supported by the University of Otago Leaders of Tomorrow Entrance Scholarship to aid students showing exceptional all-round ability and leadership potential.
Nearing his degree completion, Sean began exploring job opportunities in aquaculture, securing a position as an Aquaculture Technician at Big Glory Bay with Sanford. About eight months later, as COVID-19 emerged, Sean transitioned to a salmon hatchery in Christchurch, where he spent 18 months before returning to Sanford in his current role as Hatchery Technician at the Kaitangata hatchery located in South Otago.
Sean thrives on the flexible schedule his job offers, working seven days on followed by seven days off.
“It really gives me the time to develop other interests outside of work and catchup with friends,” says Sean.
Sean also thrives on the diversity of his role.
“One day I could be out on the farm managing broodstock, and the next I might be crunching data in the office. There really isn’t a ‘typical’ day here.”