OWEN PYLE

MARINE DEBRIS TECHNICIAN II

Hometown: Kaneohe, Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi 

Current Residence: Kahaluu, Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi

In 2018, Owen managed to get 100 ft of paracord stuck in a tree while camping with friends in Montana. At this moment, he discovered his true dispassion for rope-like materials and their sinister ability to ensnare on that which should remain unbound. Fueled by the thirst for vengeance (and some lingering embarrassment), he dedicated the next four years of his life to  mechanical engineering at Cal Poly. Now armed with the knowledge to destroy nets with ruthless efficiency, he has spent the last year supporting PMDP’s mission from afar, innovating specialized debris-removal tools as part of the Innovation Team. 

If you are a fan of conflict resolution, you will be happy to know that Owen has found some peace with the ropes, as he regularly relies on them for survival while rock climbing. He remains committed to making sure the rope stays on the rock, and off the reef.