About Rick Spinrad
Rick Spinrad was an American oceanographer and civil servant.
Early life and education Born and raised in New York City, Spinrad earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in earth and planetary sciences in 1975 from Johns Hopkins University, and a Master of Science and a PhD
Career Spinrad has held positions in the Office of Naval Research and Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command; for this work, he was awarded the Navy Distinguished Civilian Service Award.
On Earth Day 2021, Spinrad was nominated by President Joe Biden to serve as the Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere, which includes serving as the administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in the Department of Commerce. On June 17, 2021, his nomination was confirmed by voice vote in the United States Senate. He was sworn in by Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo on June 22, 2021. He served until the Biden administration left office on January 20, 2025.
In 2025, Spinrad was elected to the National Academy of Engineering.
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Frequently asked questions
Who was Rick Spinrad?
American oceanographer and government official
What was Rick Spinrad's occupation?
Rick Spinrad was an oceanographer and civil servant.
What nationality was Rick Spinrad?
Rick Spinrad was American.
Sources & further reading
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). Rick Spinrad. https://biography.guide/rick-spinrad/
MLA: "Rick Spinrad." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/rick-spinrad/.
Chicago: "Rick Spinrad." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/rick-spinrad/.
Data last updated: 2026-09-23 · Spot an error? Report a correction.
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