Klein Marine Systems Welcomes Industry Veteran Ted Curley to Leadership Team
Klein Marine Systems, a leader in advanced sonar technologies, proudly announces the addition of Ted Curley to its team. He joins with over 35 years of experience in the underwater technology industry, bringing unparalleled expertise across both defense and commercial markets.
Throughout his career, Ted has been at the forefront of innovation, contributing to cutting-edge advancements in uncrewed systems, navigation, sonars, and more. He has held prominent leadership roles, including leading Exail Defense Systems in North America and driving technological and market growth at Teledyne Marine. His extensive experience working with U.S. Navy Fleet forces, coupled with a proven track record of revenue growth and market expansion, underscores his exceptional leadership and industry acumen.
Beyond his professional achievements, Ted is an active participant in key industry organizations, including the Marine Technology Society (MTS), the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle International Systems (AUVSI), and the Navy League. As a founding member of the Marine & Oceanographic Technology Network (MOTN), Ted has consistently demonstrated his commitment to fostering collaboration and innovation in the maritime industry.
About his appointment as General Manager at Klein, Ted stated, “I’m excited to be joining Klein, a company with such a rich tradition and enduring legacy in the industry, and to be part of the growing success story at General Oceans. I look forward as Klein pioneers the latest advancements in new sonar technologies.”
Ted’s addition to the Klein Marine Systems team marks an exciting step forward for the company, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and excellence in underwater technology.
Greensea IQ Welcomes Brooks Converse as Director of Business Development to Join EverClean Growth Team
Greensea IQ, a leader in maritime technology solutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of Brooks Converse as Director of Business Development. In this role, Brooks will focus on driving the growth and adoption of EverClean, the company’s flagship proactive in-water hull cleaning solution, while building stronger partnerships within the maritime industry.
Brooks holds a Master of Science in International Transportation Management from the State University of New York Maritime College. His comprehensive understanding of port operations equips him to effectively address the challenges and constraints faced by maritime stakeholders during port activities. With a robust background in sales and consulting, Brooks is well-positioned to support the expansion of EverClean’s innovative approach to maintaining always-clean hulls, which ensures environmental compliance and operational efficiency.
“I am excited to join Greensea IQ and to focus on expanding the EverClean solution,” said Brooks Converse. “As someone with a deep understanding of port operations, I recognize the significant value that proactive hull cleaning brings to vessel operators and the maritime industry as a whole. I look forward to working with our customers to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and operational excellence.”
Rob Howard, Chief Growth Officer at Greensea IQ, expressed enthusiasm about Brooks’ new role: “We are thrilled to add Brooks to our EverClean team. His deep understanding of the maritime industry and his experience in port operations make him the perfect fit to lead the growth of EverClean. With Brooks on board, we are well-equipped to deliver even greater value to our customers and to expand our footprint in the global maritime market.”
Brooks’ appointment underscores Greensea IQ’s commitment to attracting top talent and advancing EverClean’s mission to redefine hull maintenance for the maritime industry.
GeoAcoustics Ltd Appoints Paul Stone as General Manager
Hydroacoustic technology manufacturer GeoAcoustics Ltd has appointed Paul Stone as General Manager at its headquarters in Norfolk. With 35 years of diverse experience across offshore and subsea operations and management, Paul brings a wealth of expertise and a proven track record in senior leadership roles.
Paul’s appointment comes as GeoAcoustics' continues to deliver innovations like its AI-powered bathymetric data processing for numerous customers worldwide. Recognised as a leading British exporter with a King's Award for Enterprise in International Growth, the company also won the Eastern Daily Press Medium Business of the Year 2024 award in November, highlighting its commitment to excellence and reputation as a top employer in its home county of Norfolk.
Paul joins GeoAcoustics following a 17-year career at Seamap Malaysia, which culminated in a five year tenure as General Manager at the company’s Malaysian headquarters from 2018 to 2023. During this time, he led operations, managed manufacturing and repairs, and successfully integrated new product lines. His extensive experience in offshore operations and technology, and customer-focused solutions aligns perfectly with GeoAcoustics’ mission to deliver ‘Excellence in Subsea Sound’.
Reflecting on his new role, Paul said: “GeoAcoustics has an outstanding reputation for delivering cutting-edge sonar technology that sets benchmarks in various marine sectors globally. I’m excited to join the company and contribute to new innovations while strengthening our market position globally. I look forward to working with the talented team and channel partners to build on the company’s unrivalled legacy and drive its future success.”
Linda Dowdeswell, Director and co-owner of GeoAcoustics Ltd, added: “Paul’s extensive experience and proven leadership make him the perfect choice to guide operations and inspire our team. His appointment underscores our dedication to sustainability and the delivery of world-class hydroacoustic technology, while supporting our position as an industry leader committed to quality, customer focus, and environmental responsibility.”
GeoAcoustics remains dedicated to advancing marine survey technology through its core portfolio which includes the GeoSwath bathymetric sonar, GeoPulse sub-bottom profiler, and Pulsar side scan sonar. With a focus on combining reliability, innovation, and customer-centric solutions, GeoAcoustics is well positioned for more sustainable growth under Paul’s leadership.
Chief scientists appointed to connect marine science and robotics
Two new chief scientists have been appointed to the National Oceanography Centre’s (NOC) Marine Autonomous Robotic Systems (MARS) Group.
Dr Veerle Huvenne and Dr Filipa Carvalho will work to increase engagement with the marine science community, raise awareness of the robotics available to them and seek input on future technological developments.
These appointments into MARS mark a significant commitment by the UK's National Marine Facilities (NMF), delivered by NOC, to strengthen links between science and engineering. A key element of NMF is the UK’s National Marine Equipment Pool, which MARS supports with its deep expertise on autonomous and robotic systems for use in marine research.
In their new roles, alongside their existing science commitments, Dr Huvenne and Dr Carvalho will work closely with the UK marine science sector to promote greater adoption and integration of MARS technology across the field.
They will also provide scientific insight for the advancement of MARS technologies, showcase accessibility and increase awareness of these technologies and foster a user community to share knowledge, expertise and best practices.
“We are excited to welcome Dr Huvenne and Dr Carvalho to the MARS team,” says Dr Alexander Phillips, head of MARS. “Their experience and dedication to marine science will play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between MARS innovations and the broader research community, driving forward our mission to enable cutting-edge marine research with autonomous technologies.
“We are looking forward to championing community-driven engagement and providing the scientific input that’s essential to the continued development of MARS technologies,” says Dr Huvenne.
“By focusing on user accessibility and community-building, the chief scientists will help to make MARS resources more visible and impactful for all UK marine scientists,” adds Dr Carvalho. “Our goal is to increase the use of marine robotics, driven by science need.”
Dr Huvenne is a marine geoscientist with more than 20 years of experience in the study of complex deep-sea environments such as cold-water coral reefs, submarine canyons, hydrothermal vents or seamounts. She is currently Associate Head of Ocean BioGeosciences at NOC.
Dr Carvalho is an oceanographer interested in biophysical interactions and the biological carbon pump and uses data from underwater gliders as well as other autonomous platforms, remote sensing and shipboard oceanographic data in her work.
Discover more: https://noc.ac.uk/facilities
STR hires Maxime Even as new GM in Singapore
Subsea Technology & Rentals (STR), a leading global provider of advanced sensor technology and solutions for the offshore energy and marine science markets, has welcomed Maxime Even as the new General Manager of its Singapore Technology and Service hub.
With over two decades of experience in the offshore survey industry, Even will play a key role in supporting STR’s clients across Asia-Pacific (APAC) and the Middle East, while his background in marine operations, business development and project management will help drive growth and expand STR’s regional operations and client base.Jason French, STR’s Regional Director for APAC, said: “With his impressive experience in the offshore survey market, Maxime brings a wealth of regional knowledge to our hub in Singapore and understands the unique challenges faced by our clients. The APAC region presents significant opportunities, particularly in offshore renewables, and we know Maxime will contribute greatly to our continued success in this dynamic and rapidly growing market.”
Established more than 20 years ago, STR operates globally and serves clients in the offshore energy and marine science markets, helping them acquire mission-critical marine data through the provision of advanced subsea sensor technology, solutions and services.
Kongsberg Discovery names Sandeep Sandhu as the new Country Manager for the US and Canada
Sandeep Sandhu has held the position as General Manager for Kongsberg Discovery Canada since August 2023. In his new role he will also oversee Kongsberg Discovery’s activities in the USA.
Kongsberg Discovery develops technology to ensure sustainable management of marine resources, monitor climate change and critical infrastructure, and safeguard national security. It is a business area within the KONGSBERG group and has been present in Canada and the US for almost 30 years.
The USA company is also changing its name from Kongsberg Underwater Technology Inc
(KUTL) to Kongsberg Discovery US, LLC.
Plans for growth
President Martin Wien Fjell of Kongsberg Discovery is pleased to see an internal candidate take on more responsibility for a great region.
"Sandhu and his leadership team have expanded the business in Canada. I am confident he is the right person to lead Kongsberg Discovery and grow the business in the US, as well as continuing to develop the market in Canada," he says.
Prior to joining Kongsberg Discovery, Sandhu has extensive leadership experience in the technology sector. He entered the new role on September 1.
“He has relevant expertise and the right mindset, and I look forward to continuing to work with him in his leadership to deliver on our ambitious targets,” Fjell says.
Technology for discovering the secrets of the ocean
Kongsberg Discovery develops technology to ensure sustainable management of marine resources, monitor climate change and critical infrastructure, and safeguard national security. The technology and solutions are aimed at areas such as offshore operations, fisheries, marine research, maritime operations, ocean-based energy production, as well as the navy.
Sandhu emphasises the significant potential of the Canadian and US markets for the company. He already has a plan to expand Kongsberg Discovery's market share in his new region.
"The company has significant potential in both Canada and the US, and I am excited for what our teams will be able to deliver. Being able to spend more time in the US and getting to know our customers, partners, and our team in the weeks to come will be a key priority. I'm grateful for this opportunity," he says.
Kongsberg Discovery operates within segments and technologies with a particularly wide variety of stakeholders. The company operates within both commercial and defence markets, and in the intersection between the academic and commercial world.
A strong team in the US
Sandeep Sandhu was appointed as the interim general manager of KUTL, now Kongsberg Discovery US, LLC, in July of this year. The head office is located in Lynnwood, Seattle, and there are about 35 people based in this office, in addition to a team throughout the US. Sandhu is eager to take on this role and to further develop the ambitious plans set by the team.
“I have had this responsibility for just a few weeks, so I am eager to meet more people and to delve deeper into numerous issues. The American team is robust, and I believe that together we will achieve great success moving forward,” he states.
Sandhu will continue to serve as general manager of Kongsberg Discovery Canada. He will collaborate with the management team and the board to determine the best organizational structure for the market and customers.
Subsea Supplies Limited appoints business development manager amidst continued growth
Prior to his appointment, Gary spent five years with Concept Cables Limited as business development manager, responsible for the design of cables to client specifications across the UK.
Gary said: “This is an exciting time to join the Subsea Supplies team, and I look forward to the opportunity to engage with advanced subsea technologies, collaborate with experienced professionals, and grow in a supportive work environment.
“The energy sector is in a time of transition, but one thing that remains the same is demand from clients for quality subsea equipment. As we look to expand our advanced service offerings into new markets, I’m confident our track record of exceptional customer service will continue.”
This latest hire follows several key appointments within Subsea Supplies Limited, which include the creation of roles for a marketing manager, and sales coordinator.
Pauline McCann, Subsea Supplies’ sales director added: “It’s a pleasure to welcome Gary to the team. His experience and understanding of the sector will allow us to widen our offerings to clients and support them in an ever-expanding portfolio of projects across the offshore space.
“We have spent almost 25 years’ building a trusted reputation as an international equipment supplier, from small local firms to global businesses, and I know Gary will help us continue to deliver quality solutions to the subsea industry.”
Subsea Supplies has been a provider of ROV, AUV, oil and gas, oceanographic and defence solutions since 2000 and has vast experience across the subsea and cables industry. The company is a partner to world-leading manufacturers of electrical and mechanical components, and a global distributor for Burton Subsea, Nexans, Sun Star Electric, Masto, Innerspace and Clear Com.
Subsea Supplies is the only Burton product range distributor in Europe to be certified to manufacture Burton cable and connector assemblies to Eaton standards.
Kraken Robotics appoints Chief Operating Officer and hires Marketing Director
Kraken Robotics Inc. (“Kraken” or the “Company”) (TSX-V: PNG, OTCQB: KRKNF) announces that effective July 9, Nathaniel Spencer has been appointed Chief Operating Officer of Kraken. Mr. Spencer joined Kraken in August 2021 with the acquisition of PanGeo Subsea, where he was the Vice President of Service Delivery. For the last 18 months, Nat has been the Managing Director of Kraken’s subsea power business. Nat has over 12 years in the marine sector, including founding a subsea inspection business that was sold to Oceaneering in 2016.
Greg Reid, Kraken’s President and CEO noted, “I am pleased to promote Nat to the COO role after 3 years at Kraken. Nat’s strength is in driving operational performance, by building strong teams, setting goals, and effectively monitoring and communicating both up and down an organization. He is very process driven and brings a sense of urgency and solid business sense to matters at Kraken. Combined with the rest of our Executive Management team that includes Joe MacKay (CFO), Dave Shea (CTO), and Lynne Adu (CCO) our organization is now well structured to handle strong organic growth and to integrate selective acquisitions that add additional technology, customers, and profitability to our business.
Kraken is also pleased to announce that Erica Kierstead has joined as Director of Global Marketing. Based in Boston, Erica spent 2 years at MITRE in marketing and communications most recently focused on the AI and Bluetech sectors, and prior to that spent 9 years at Hydroid and then HII in marketing. With over 10 years of experience in ocean technology and the defense industries, Erica is a welcome addition to lead Kraken’s marketing efforts.
Sonardyne confirms next phase of On Demand Ocean Bottom Node project with Shell, Petrobras and SENAI CIMATEC in Brazil
Sonardyne is proud to announce the next phase of the pioneering On Demand Ocean Bottom Node (OD OBN) development project in Brazil. The project, which began in 2018, involves a collaboration between industry partners including Shell Brasil Petróleo Ltda, Petrobras and SENAI CIMATEC and is supported under the Research Development and Infrastructure funding clause of the Brazilian National Agency for Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels (ANP).
These highly innovative nodes might lead to the next generation of geophysical monitoring systems in the offshore oil and gas industry. Using Sonardyne’s proprietary optical and acoustic communications technologies, and drawing on its extensive experience of seabed monitoring, OD OBN expects to provide a versatile, lower cost, more resilient solution for time-lapse seismic and subsidence monitoring of producing reservoirs with better data and the capacity to be placed on the ocean floor for up to five years without human intervention.
The idea is that data from these nodes can be extracted using Sonardyne’s through water optical communications system to a nearby Autonomous Underwater Vehicle such as ‘Flatfish’ which was developed by Saipem and SENAI CIMATEC under another ANP funded program sponsored by Shell and Petrobras.
This latest phase was confirmed by the signing of contracts between SENAI CIMATEC and Petrobras in August 2023 and between Shell, SENAI CIMATEC, and Sonardyne in April 2024, to produce a pilot array of 600 prototype nodes expected to be deployed towards the end of 2025 at a preselected field offshore Brazil.
This pilot array is planned to be manufactured at a newly created pilot plant facility constructed by SENAI CIMATEC at CIMATEC PARK, in an industrial region called Camaçari, close to the city of Salvador in Brazil. The pilot plant has a design capacity to produce 600 nodes per year, featuring state of the art facilities including specialist parts machining and metals treatment, surface mount electronics production, a large and flexible manufacturing area and various environmental and functional testing apparatus, all of which are required to turn raw materials into completed nodes.
Shaun Dunn, Projects Director, Sonardyne, welcomed this latest project phase and commented “We have been developing the enabling technologies for semi-permanent seabed seismic and subsidence monitoring nodes for over a decade and are therefore naturally delighted that they will soon be used in the world’s first large scale field wide test. Our sincere thanks go to our research partners in Shell, Petrobras and SENAI CIMATEC for supporting this program since its inception several years ago.”
Shell and Petrobras have been trialling OD OBN prototypes during conventional OBN seismic campaigns, including at Sapinhoá and Itapu, in over 2,000 metres of water off the coast of Brazil.
"It is a great milestone to see that this technology, made in Brazil, with the support from ANP and in collaboration with national, international, and the two leading offshore operators, is closer to being deployed to monitor the large Brazilian Pre-salt fields.", says Jorge Lopez, Shell Brazil Subsurface Technology Manager.
The involvement of Petrobras, the state-owned Petroleum company of Brazil, has played a key part in the development of OD OBN and they intend to take delivery of the pilot array on completion for deployment at a jointly operated offshore field in the pre-salt region to the south of Rio de Janeiro.
“The OD OBN technology will be important in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions during our seismic acquisition operations offshore. Besides that, it will provide a higher level of automation in our seismic field activities which will lead Petrobras and partners to be more efficient in reservoir seismic monitoring processes in the Brazilian pre-salt area.”, says Alexandre Silva, Senior Geophysicist Advisor of the Research Centre of Petrobras (CENPES).
Production of the pilot array at CIMATEC PARK is expected to commence later in 2024 and to involve the employment of a new workforce that will be recruited mainly from the local area and trained in the specialist skills required for high-volume manufacturing and testing of nodes that will be deployed and used for prolonged periods in the harshest of marine environments.
“Our partnership with Shell, Petrobras and Sonardyne has successfully developed this innovative node from a simple proof of concept towards readiness for full commercial production at CIMATEC PARK. We are therefore very excited to be moving on to the next phase of this challenging programme that will create hundreds of nodes for the upcoming field scale deployment. We have invested significant capital and intellectual resources to ensure that this phase is successful.”, states Valter E. Beal, SENAI CIMATEC Innovation Projects Leader.
Dr. Sarah Ruth Merrigan Joins Teledyne RD Instruments
Teledyne RD Instruments (RDI) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Sarah Ruth Merrigan as our new Technical Service and Support Engineer.
Sarah will be based out of RDI headquarters in Poway, CA. She joins Paul Chua, MMSci, and Chris Rockey on our field service team to enhance global support of Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (ADCPs) and Doppler Velocity Logs (DVLs).
Sarah has a strong background in civil engineering, physical oceanography, water resources, and hydrology, with a BS and an MS from the University of Arizona and PhD from the University of California, Irvine. As a graduate research assistant, Sarah’s work focused on understanding the physical drivers of hypoxia in coral reef systems. She used analytical models and field observations to analyze the physical processes that affect the oxygen dynamics and water quality in these fragile ecosystems.
Grant Jennings, Product Line Director of RDI, commented on the appointment: “First off, I’d like to congratulate Sarah on her recently earned PhD from UC Irvine. And secondly, I’m delighted to welcome Sarah to the field service/support team at RDI. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in oceanographic data analysis, water resources, hydrology, and civil engineering. We look forward to her application of theoretical and practical knowledge to address our customers’ requirements."
Sarah adds, “I am excited to join the RDI team and look forward to leveraging my multi-faceted background to assist clientele with our products. This position combines my water resource background with my physical oceanography experience, including deploying and analyzing data from Teledyne RDI Workhorses, enabling me to help our customers problem-solve and collect robust observations in many settings.”