Dr. Vicki Ferrini is a Senior Research Scientist at Columbia University's Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory and a globally recognized leader in ocean mapping and ocean data sharing. With over two decades of experience advancing marine geoscience, she serves as Head of the Seabed 2030 Regional Center for the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. In this role, Dr. Ferrini spearheads international collaborations, champions open data accessibility, and leverages cutting-edge technologies to transform seabed mapping data into publicly available global resources. Her multidisciplinary career integrates scientific research, data management, and policy advocacy, enabling her to bridge the gap between technological innovation and practical solutions. She is committed to ensuring that ocean science and geoscientific data sharing drive impactful and equitable solutions to benefit communities and ecosystems worldwide.