During his long and distinguished career as a Coast Guard Officer and engineer, Commander Knowles specialized in maritime safety and security, fleet operations and support, and educating future Coast Guard engineers.

Commander Knowles is an expert in ship and engineering design, computer-based software training and tools, and domestic and international treaties and regulations. Knowles served at various times as a shipboard engineering officer, staff naval architect and engineer, and international maritime inspector.

A graduate of the United States Coast Guard Academy, Knowles holds MSE degrees in mechanical engineering, and naval architecture and marine engineering from the University of Michigan.