The Science Behind the Sand: Understanding Coastal Erosion and Shoreline Change | Bryan McCormack

In this presentation from the Cape Cod Technology Council’s First Friday speaker series, Bryan McCormack explores the dynamic forces that shape our coastlines and the science behind coastal erosion, beach change, and shoreline resilience. Coastlines are constantly changing as waves, tides, storms, and sea level influence the movement of sand and sediment. In this talk, Bryan explains how scientists study these natural processes and use modern coastal monitoring technologies to better understand shoreline change, protect coastal communities, and support informed decision-making. During this presentation, you’ll learn: • How sand moves along beaches and coastlines • The natural processes that drive coastal erosion and shoreline change • The impacts of storms and sea level rise on coastal environments • How scientists monitor changing coastlines using modern technology • The role of coastal science in protecting communities and natural resources • Why understanding shoreline dynamics is critical for long-term coastal resilience Bryan McCormack is the Coastal Processes and Hazard Specialist for Barnstable County through the Cape Cod Cooperative Extension and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Sea Grant. He holds a Master’s degree in Marine Science and Technology from the University of Massachusetts Boston and has worked with the Center for Coastal Studies and the Stone Living Lab, specializing in coastal processes, hydrography, and nature-based resilience solutions. About First Friday First Friday is the Cape Cod Technology Council’s flagship speaker series, bringing together innovators, entrepreneurs, researchers, educators, and technology leaders to explore emerging technologies and the ideas shaping our future. Held monthly since the mid-1990s, the series has featured hundreds of presentations from local, national, and international experts spanning science, engineering, entrepreneurship, healthcare, ocean technology, artificial intelligence, sustainability, space technology, and more. First Friday events are hosted at the Lorusso Applied Technology Building at Cape Cod Community College, and we are grateful for the College’s continued support of the Cape Cod Technology Council and the region’s technology community. Learn more about the Cape Cod Technology Council and upcoming events at www.cctechcouncil.org. #CapeCodTechCouncil #FirstFriday #TechnologyTalk #CoastalErosion #ShorelineChange #CoastalResilience #BeachScience #CoastalEngineering #SeaLevelRise #OceanScience