The People Behind the Mission

Nova Gold's team continues to grow across every discipline. The operators, scientists, leaders, and advocates who make this mission possible come from every corner of the service community. Their ranks expand with every new partnership, every expedition, and every person who answers the call.

Science & Research Team

Turning Discovery into Knowledge.

The Science & Research Team provides the expertise that transforms discovery into knowledge. Made up of archaeologists, geomatics specialists, historians, marine scientists, and technical experts, this group ensures every project is conducted with scientific rigor, historical accuracy, and a commitment to preserving our shared heritage.

James "Jim" Sinclair

Maritime Historical Archaeologist & Board Member

James "Jim" Sinclair, M.A., is an internationally recognized maritime historical archaeologist with more than four decades of international field experience specializing in historic shipwreck investigation, deep-water archaeological survey, artifact conservation, and museum interpretation. Throughout his distinguished career, he has served as lead archaeologist on some of the world's most significant maritime expeditions, including RMS Titanic, the 1715 Spanish Fleet, Nuestra Señora de Atocha, Santa Margarita, RMS Lusitania, and numerous projects throughout the Atlantic, Caribbean, and Pacific regions.

A respected authority in underwater cultural heritage, Jim's expertise spans archaeological conservation, remote sensing technologies, public education, and the development of world-class museum exhibitions, including the Bahamas Maritime Museum. His work has contributed significantly to the preservation and interpretation of maritime history and has helped advance the field of marine archaeology internationally.

As a Board Member of the Nova Gold Foundation, Jim brings unparalleled experience in maritime archaeology, conservation science, and historical research. His leadership and expertise are instrumental in advancing the Foundation's mission of preserving maritime heritage, supporting educational initiatives, and creating meaningful opportunities through exploration, discovery, and stewardship of our shared maritime past.

Dr. Aaron Taylor

Historical Archaeologist & Board Member

Dr. Aaron Taylor is a registered professional archaeologist with the Province of Nova Scotia and an internationally respected expert in conflict archaeology, military history, and the recovery of fallen service members. His work has taken him across Europe and Southeast Asia, where he has led and participated in the recovery and identification of soldiers lost in Austria, Germany, France, Belgium, and the Philippines, helping bring long-awaited answers and closure to families and nations.

Dr. Taylor is a professor in the Department of History at Acadia University and serves as Director of the Canadian Remembrance and Recovery Project, an organization dedicated to locating, recovering, and commemorating Canada's missing war dead. Combining academic excellence with extensive field experience, his work bridges archaeology, history, and remembrance, ensuring that the sacrifices of those who served are never forgotten.

As a member of the Nova Gold Foundation team, Dr. Taylor brings exceptional expertise in historical research, archaeology, and heritage preservation. His dedication to honouring the fallen and preserving our shared history perfectly aligns with Nova Gold's mission of service, stewardship, and remembrance.

Jenna Lahey

Historian & Maritime Heritage Advocate

Jenna Lahey is a historian and maritime heritage advocate with a deep passion for preserving and sharing the rich coastal history of Nova Scotia. With 15 years of experience working with Parks Canada at the Fortress of Louisbourg, Jenna developed a strong foundation in public history, interpretation, cultural preservation, and storytelling, shaped by a lifelong connection to one of Canada's most historically significant communities.

In 2018, Jenna brought that passion to life by founding a marine museum dedicated to the shipwrecks, seafaring traditions, and maritime stories of the region. Through her work, she has helped shine a light on Nova Scotia's powerful connection to the sea and the generations of sailors, fishermen, families, and communities shaped by it.

As part of the Nova Gold Foundation team, Jenna brings valuable historical knowledge, interpretive experience, and a strong commitment to community heritage. Her dedication to preserving local history and making it accessible to the public strengthens Nova Gold's mission of maritime heritage preservation, education, and cultural stewardship.

Garth L. Baldwin

Archeologist, USMC (RET)

Garth L. Baldwin is a professional archaeologist, U.S. Marine Corps veteran, and Principal Investigator at Drayton Archaeology, with more than two decades of experience leading archaeological investigations and over 1,900 cultural resource assessments across North America. A Registered Professional Archaeologist (RPA) and respected expert in cultural resource management, Garth has directed projects for federal, tribal, state, and private organizations, specializing in archaeological survey, human remains recovery, battlefield archaeology, and historic preservation.

His expertise has been featured on numerous History Channel productions, including Lost U-Boats of WWII, Buried: Knights Templar and the Holy Grail, History’s Greatest Mysteries, Mysteries Unearthed with Danny Trejo, UFO Hunters, and Ghost Lab, where he has served as both an archaeological consultant and on-screen expert. His field experience also includes the recovery and identification of American service members from the Pacific theatre with History Flight and the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), as well as archaeological research in the Russian Caucasus.

A certified PADI Rescue and Nitrox diver, Garth combines scientific expertise with extensive field operations experience, making him equally at home in remote terrestrial environments and underwater investigations. His unique background as a disabled U.S. Marine Corps veteran, professional archaeologist, and television host brings exceptional operational knowledge, leadership, and historical insight to every expedition.

Purpose. Service. Heritage. Recovery.