Mr. Craig Russell has been the Director of the Fishery Resource Analysis and Monitoring Division since early 2020. Craig guides the Center's innovative scientific research, data collection, and stock and economic assessments to support West Coast groundfish fisheries management. Throughout his career, he led multidisciplinary ocean research and technology teams working to understand poorly known ocean resources and processes to strengthen the health of our economy, communities, and environment. Before joining NWFSC, he directed the NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer telepresence-enabled exploration program for NOAA Ocean Exploration and Research. He also contributed to national and regional strategic initiatives on ocean governance, ecosystem based-management, and environmental restoration. He holds a Master of Marine Affairs from the University of Washington and a Bachelor of Arts in Urban Studies from Vassar College.