The Art & Science of Search & Recovery

Tom has almost 40 years of experience in underwater recovery. He began with drag bar methods, advanced to using side-scan sonar in the 90s, and then shifted to remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) in the early 2000s. His specialty lies in using side-scan sonar and VideoRay ROVs for recovery work. Despite being a diver, most of his recent work has involved technology rather than direct diving due to his focus on sonar and ROVs. Tom’s expertise revolves around conducting thorough searches based on accurate information and interviews from witnesses or those familiar with the scene. His approach emphasizes meticulous information gathering to ensure searches are conducted in the correct location, highlighting the importance of the point last seen. He has handled numerous challenging recovery cases that others couldn’t solve. Tom also emphasizes the significance of realistic training, understanding drowning physiology, and comprehensive scene documentation, utilizing technology such as sonar and ROVs to aid investigations.

In this presentation, Tom, an expert in underwater robotics, shares his journey from fascination to becoming a pioneer in ROV tech. He talks about the challenges he faces and how they shape his career, stressing the importance of curiosity and persistence. His experience covers various aspects of underwater robotics, including innovations in ROVs, showing how these technologies transform search and recovery missions.

He highlights how the ROV industry and search and recovery operations go hand in hand. Tom explains how underwater robotics are changing the game, making it possible to explore and retrieve things from depths that were once impossible to reach. His stories mix tackling tricky situations underwater with the groundbreaking solutions crafted by ROV experts. Tom’s insights reveal the exciting progress and the teamwork driving further advancements in this space.

Tom’s journey captures the blend of innovation, resilience, and tech savviness in the underwater robotics world. His story mirrors the growth of ROVs from basic beginnings to their pivotal roles in today’s search and recovery missions. His reflections on the close ties between these industries shed light on the incredible advancements that continually push the boundaries of exploring our oceans’ depths.