Builds a multi-generational community around ocean mapping and geospatial visualization, creating opportunities to learn from women professionals in the field and explore pathways into ocean-focused STEM careers.
Pioneering ocean mapper, Marie Tharp, worked at Columbia University’s Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory (LDEO) from the 1950s -1980s and created seafloor maps that not only revealed the shape of the seafloor but were instrumental in transforming our understanding of the planet. Marie’s work and ideas began to challenge the scientific establishment, and were initially dismissed as “girl talk.” Her understanding of math and geology, and her cartographic skills, allowed her to transform profiles of seafloor depth data into spectacular 3-dimensional maps. Now, her work is referred to by many as the “spark that ignited the Plate Tectonics Revolution.”
Since the days of Marie Tharp, researchers at LDEO have continued to improve publicly-available global seafloor maps. Multiple women-led projects at LDEO are actively contributing to international efforts to accelerate the completion of this map which relies on collaboration and cooperation.
Learn more about Marie Tharp in this ArcGIS StoryMap.
Inspired by Marie Tharp, the Girl Talk Program brings a multi-generational community together to share in the excitement of the collaborative space of global ocean mapping, providing an opportunity to contribute to the creation maps of the world ocean floor. The program provides foundational knowledge about ocean mapping and its importance while providing an overview of career opportunities and direct connections to the growing professional network. Women who are leaders in the collection, processing, data management and interpretation of ocean seafloor data provide virtual presentations, Q&A sessions, and insights to strengthen the network of women in the field while leading participants through an exploration of ocean mapping.
Learn more about the Girl Talk program in the Girl Talk Community website.
