Anesti Vega is an ocean scientist, engineer, and educator whose work centers on expanding equitable access to ocean science and experiential learning. After serving as a combat infantry soldier with the 101st Airborne Division and 7th Special Forces Group, he transitioned from award‑winning filmmaker to oceanographer and scientific diver, bringing a deep commitment to service, community, and storytelling into the world of marine science.
He has taught and led thousands of students, veterans, and community members through SCUBA training, scientific diving preparation, and hands‑on ocean exploration. As a field researcher and science communicator, Anesti focuses on making marine science, water safety, and diving education accessible to learners of all backgrounds, with particular emphasis on marginalized and historically excluded communities.
Anesti serves as the Scuba Council Chair for Diversity in Aquatics, where he leads national initiatives to expand safe, culturally responsive access to aquatic education. He also contributes to the Diversity & Outreach Committee for the AAUS Foundation, supporting pathways into scientific diving and ocean research. His leadership and impact have been recognized through honors including the Diversity in Aquatics President’s Award (2022), the John Beakley Marine Science Educator of the Year Award (2021), and Scuba Diving Magazine’s Sea Hero of the Year (2021).
Grounded in the values of service, discipline, and community instilled by his elders and military experience, Anesti is dedicated to building inclusive systems that connect people to the ocean and to each other. His work aims to create lasting opportunities for future generations to learn, explore, and thrive through meaningful engagement with the oceanic world.