Chad Bonin:
Where are you from? St. Martinville, Louisiana.
How long have you worked offshore? I have worked for 22 years offshore. I started as an offshore surveyer on pipeline installations and platforms. I also have worked on sub-sea assemblies. I joined Ocean Infinity when the company started and have searched for underwater wrecks ever since.
What is your job off-shore? I am the team leader for an AUV team of four. I specialize in infinity-view mission planning. That is the mission planning software used to guide the AUV underwater. I also operate HOS, the Huggin Operating System, which is the software that controls the AUVs.
What is the best part of working as an AUV Team leader? I have enjoyed teaching new people how to operate the AUVs and explaining to them the new technology. I also enjoy looking out for the welfare of the team.
What qualities are important for working off-shore? You need a sense of humor, a good work ethic and you need to be able to take initiative. You must have a willingness to learn, demonstrate common sense and show some independence. But you must not be afraid to ask for help.
Blake Howard:
