Get to know me

Blending a childhood amidst film set magic with a career in event production and environmental advocacy, I bring a unique fusion of creative innovation and ecological commitment. Passionate about project management and technology, I'm dedicated to driving impactful change, inspired by nature's marvels.

a person standing on a beach with a surfboard
a person standing on a beach with a surfboard

Beyond the Resume:

My Odyssey in Creativity and Conservation

Immersed in a world where the magic of filmmaking met the serene whispers of the ocean, my journey began in the vibrant corridors of production sets and the untamed beauty of coastal landscapes. As the son of a special effects coordinator for iconic shows like Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, my childhood playgrounds were realms of creativity and technological wonder, seeding a lifelong fascination with storytelling, innovation, and environmental stewardship.

This unique upbringing shaped a multifaceted career path, harmonizing the realms of event production, IT infrastructure, and environmental advocacy. My professional narrative is not just a series of job titles but a tapestry of experiences woven from the diverse threads of project management, creative production, and a deep-seated commitment to the natural world. From orchestrating complex IT setups at Burning Man to conducting marine debris analysis with NOAA in the Channel Islands, each chapter of my career has been driven by a passion for challenge and a dedication to impact.

As a certified Project Management Professional (PMP), I’ve honed the art of navigating intricate project landscapes, blending strategic planning with agile execution. My journey through the dynamic environments of music festivals, as both a network deployment specialist and co-creator of event experiences, has imbued me with an acute understanding of logistical intricacies and stakeholder dynamics. These experiences have been complemented by roles in financial management, safety leadership, and team development, demonstrating my versatility and capacity for cross-functional collaboration.

Beyond the professional realm, my heart beats for environmental conservation. Growing up with the Pacific as my backyard, I developed a profound connection with the environment. This connection transcends my personal life and is deeply interwoven into my professional endeavors. My work in GIS mapping, coastal research, and environmental data analysis reflects a commitment to harnessing technology for ecological well-being. The rigorous studies conducted during my capstone research at CSU Channel Islands and my internship at the Surfrider Foundation are testaments to my dedication to preserving our planet's natural treasures.

My journey is not just about the roles I’ve played; it’s about the growth and introspection each has fostered. The post-pandemic era has been a time of reflection, reigniting my commitment to mission-driven work and my desire to merge my project management expertise with my environmental advocacy. I strive to contribute to causes that resonate with my core values, emphasizing safety, sustainability, and innovation.

As I continue to navigate this ever-evolving professional landscape, I bring a diverse skill set, a passion for creativity, and a heart committed to environmental and social change. My story is one of a relentless quest for growth, a drive to make a difference, and a pursuit to merge the wonder of my early set adventures with the advocacy born from a lifetime spent amidst nature’s marvels.

In sharing my story, I invite you to explore not just my professional accomplishments but the underlying motivations and values that propel me forward. Join me on this journey as I continue to seek opportunities where my skills, passion, and drive can contribute to meaningful, lasting change.

Michael Monak n in a suit and tie is standing in front of a tree | Project Manager, Environmental
Michael Monak n in a suit and tie is standing in front of a tree | Project Manager, Environmental
Michael Monak Project Manager, Environmental Scientist, & Surfing Steward
Michael Monak Project Manager, Environmental Scientist, & Surfing Steward

My mission

Dedicated to collaborating with mission-driven organizations, I bring expertise in project management, IT operations, health and safety, and environmental advocacy to foster innovative, sustainable solutions. My mission, deeply rooted in environmental conservation and inspired by my upbringing on film sets and coastal landscapes, is to combine strategic planning with agile execution in impactful projects. Recently earning my Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, I reaffirm my commitment to efficiency, growth, and delivering meaningful change. With a focus on blending creativity, technical precision, and sustainability, I aim to leave a positive legacy for both the environment and society.

My vision

I envision a future where environmental stewardship and collaboration drive global transformation. With expertise in project management, IT, and environmental science, I am committed to shaping projects that unite innovation and sustainability. My goal is to lead initiatives harmonizing human progress with ecological well-being, fostering an interconnected society. Inspired by my upbringing amidst filmmaking and coastal settings, I leverage strategic planning and technological expertise to address challenges with creativity and precision. Through collaboration and dedication, I aspire to help build a future where environmental care and human solidarity create a brighter, more resilient world.

Michael Monak builds Burning Man |Project Manager, Environmental Scientist, & Surfing Steward
Michael Monak builds Burning Man |Project Manager, Environmental Scientist, & Surfing Steward
MIchael Monak | Project Manager, Environmental Scientist - standing on a log log in the water
MIchael Monak | Project Manager, Environmental Scientist - standing on a log log in the water
Michael Monak on the set of Star Trek Deep Space 9 with Michael Dorian dressed as Warf
Michael Monak on the set of Star Trek Deep Space 9 with Michael Dorian dressed as Warf

Chart the uncharted, conserve the precious

In every endeavor, blend the rigor of innovation with the rhythm of nature, forging paths that respect our planet and inspire the human spirit.