Bec Pedler grew up on a sheep and cropping farm on South Australia's Eyre Peninsula, where she developed a strong appreciation for primary industries and a passion for science. Inspired by summers spent enjoying the region’s renowned seafood, she pursued a career in aquaculture research and development. Bec is currently employed by Yumbah Aquaculture and is completing her PhD with Flinders University through the National Industry PhD Program. Her research focuses on safeguarding abalone against environmentally driven mortality events, with a particular emphasis on nutrition, genetics, and husbandry practices. Bec is especially passionate about bridging the gap between academia and industry through meaningful, applied research translation.