28000 Marguerite Pkwy 
Mission Viejo, CA  92692 
USA 
 Aquarium & Aquaculture Science
 
An Interview with Scott Brang
2007-08 Graduate
Aquarium & Aquacutlure Science
What is your job title?
I am currently the purchasing assistant at Marine Depot.  I am in charge ordering product from more than 3 dozen marine aquarium vendors and manufacturers.  I also work closely with our website design department to ensure that our product descriptions are accurate and up to date.  On occasion I am asked to write articles for our newsletters including subjects on Aquarium pests, aquatic disease and treatment, and new product reviews.

What are your responsibilities?
The best part (in my opinion) I get to test new equipment that has yet to hit the shelves.  I give feedback to the manufacturer and help decide if it is a worthwhile product to carry.

What do you like most about your job?

I really enjoy everything about this job.  I have found that the people in the pet industry, especially the aquarium trade, are genuinely nice people.  There isn't a substitute for good people.  When those around you are happy, you can't help but to be happy.

What courses, classes, lectures/lab/activities in our program is/was the most
beneficial to your current job?
For my current job, I would have to say I use every course on nearly a daily basis.
I have relied on what I learned in Ecology, Disease and Water quality too write many articles and also to make decisions on what products will be the best choice for animal health.

What would you advise 'newbies' about if they were to aspire to do what you are doing right now.
Would you recommend the program, hobbies, degrees, etc…that would help them.
Be flexible.  You don't know what oppurtunities are out there.  You will need to scrub a lot of protein skimmers before you are the curator of a public aquarium.
Gather as much infomation as you can.  Take courses.  Read books, scientific journals, or anything you can get your hands on.
Talk to professional in the field.  They can set you in the right direction on what is required of the job.  They can also help you decide if this is something you really want to do.

 

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