Provides Opinion & Testimony In:
Accredited Marine Surveyor, Maritime Investigation, Boating Accidents, Forensic Civil Engineer specializing in marine waterfront investigations marine surveyor, docks, piers, marinas, waterfront structures, boating safety, navigation, dredging, Coast Guard requirements, Boating skills Seamanship, Fire Arson investigation, damaged cargo inspection, diving underwater investigation, marine engineering,commercial fishing boats accidents, rules of the road violations, Jones Act accidents,Marine Electrical Technician, Marine Corrosion Technician, Marine Gas Engine Technician, Marine Systems Technician,Search Rescue, Deck Watch Officer, Navigation Rules, Boating Skills Seamanship specialist, Advanced Coastal Navigation, Weather Specialist, Piloting Specialist, Patrols Specialist, Communications Specialist, Vessel Examiner, Boat Crew Member, Coxswain, PWC Operator, Team Coordination Training, Title 46 Commercial Fishing Vessel Examiner,
Licenses and Certifications
- Master, Inland and Near Coastal Steam or Motor Vessels, 100 GT, with Assistance Towing Endorsement, US Coast Guard (USCG)
- Able Bodied Seaman, USCG
- Title 46 Commercial Fishing Vessel Examiner, USCG
- 46 CFR 28.270(c) Instruction, drills and safety orientation, Commercial Fishing Vessel Drill Leader, USCG
- Marine Radio Operator, Federal Communications Commission
- Certified Marine Investigator, International Association of Marine Investigators (IAMI)
- Certified Fire and Explosion Investigator, National Association of Fire Investigators
- Certified Fire Investigator, International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI)
- Fire Investigator, National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications
- Underwater Investigator, Dive Rescue International
- Certified Marine Surveyor, National Association of Marine Surveyors (NAMS-CMS)
- Hull and Machinery – Brown Water
- Fishing Vessels
- Yachts and Small Craft
- Cargo
- Accredited Marine Surveyor, Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS/AMS)
- Commercial Workboats
- Tug & Barge
- Yachts and Small Craft
- Cargo
- Certified Subchapter M Surveyor, Towing Vessel Inspection Bureau (TVIB)
- Annual Surveys Endorsement
- Drydock/Internal Structural Examination Endorsement
- Master Marine Technician, American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC), including:
- Marine Electrical Technician
- Marine Corrosion Technician
- Marine Gas Engines and Support Systems Technician
- Marine Diesel Engines and Support Systems Technician
- Marine Systems Technician
- Composite Boat Builder
- Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technician
- ABYC Standards
Registrations
- Professional Engineer (PE): California #C55477, Arizona #37620, Florida #40098
Education
- Doctor of Science in Research and Engineering Management, Southeastern Institute of Technology, Huntsville, AL
- Master of Engineering in Engineering Management, Boston U., Boston, MA
- BS in Civil Engineering, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, VA
Experience
1996–present: Full time self-employed maritime and boating accident investigator and safety consultant; forensic civil engineer specializing in marine and waterfront investigations; and marine surveyor. Doing business as Southwest Passage Marine Surveys and later as Principal, Southwest Passage Marine Surveys, LLC (www.swpassagemarinesurveys.com) 2001 – Present.
Investigator of marine and boating accidents and damaged cargo on inland and coastal waters, and on the high seas. Investigations have included collisions, allisions, sinkings and underwater investigations, fraud, arson, wrongful death, carbon monoxide poisoning, propeller cuts and other injuries, multiple deaths, operating under the influence, Jones Act, OSHA, manufacturers defects, as well as vessel machinery and electrical failures. Performed vessel collision analysis and accident reconstruction. Investigations have also included accidents and failures involving docks, piers, marinas and other waterfront structures.
Marine surveyor for small craft, yachts, small commercial vessels, commercial fishing vessels, fireboats, rescue boats, drydocks, machinery, cargo and containers. Vessel surveys included comprehensive inspections of hull, propulsion systems, electrical systems, electronics, pumps, major components and fittings, ventilation, and other components, as well as ABYC, National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and OSHA and USCG engineering and safety requirements.
Performed stability testing for small passenger vessels.
Consultant on maritime and boating safety, navigation, dredging, and aids to navigation. Consultant on the design, construction and maintenance of marinas and other waterfront facilities.
Boating Safety Instructor, AZ Game and Fish (2001– 2008). Taught boating safety, Arizona boating law and “Train the Trainer” classes for personnel desiring to teach boating safety for AZ Game and Fish.
Boating Safety Instructor, Oregon State Marine Board (2008 – 2021). Teach boating safety and Oregon boating law.
Instructor for Boating Safety Instructors, Oregon State Marine Board (2008 – 2010). Teach instructors how to teach boating safety and Oregon boating law.
Boating Safety Instructor, Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission (2008 – 2015). Teach boating safety and Washington boating law.
Instructor, USCG Auxiliary (2001– 2008). Taught chapters in the Boating Skills and Seamanship Course, chapters in the Advanced Coastal Navigation Course, seamanship, situational awareness, towing, boating safety, rules of the road and other boating safety classes.
Instructor, IAMI (2007 –). Teach classes in marine accident investigation and reconstruction and marine fire investigation.
On Call Investigator, Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots (2009 – 2013).
Instructor, California Department of Boating and Waterways (2012 –2014). Taught basic and advanced classes in Boating Accident Investigation/Reconstruction to California Boating Safety Officers. Assisted in revising the Advanced Boating Accident Investigation/Reconstruction Course.
Member (marine engineer), Commercial Fishing Safety Advisory Committee (CFSAC) (2016 – 2020). Appointed to this 18-member committee by the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security “to represent the viewpoints of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers.” The CFSAC provides advice and recommendations to the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on matters relating to the safety of commercial fishing industry vessels.
1996–2000: Adjunct instructor, California Maritime Academy (CMA), Vallejo, CA.
Instructor in seamanship, navigation, watchstanding, water survival, Coast Guard requirements and International Maritime Organization Standards of Crewing, Training and Watchkeeping (STCW) qualifications (engineering and deck), marine engineering, electricity, electronics and communications. Taught shipboard firefighting and damage control.
Taught afloat on CMA Training Ship Golden Bear during summer cruise, on other academy vessels, ashore in classroom, as well as in steam, diesel and bridge simulators and engineering laboratory’s.
Responsible for course development of several engineering and marine technical courses.
Students included both maritime cadets and serving mariners requiring additional skills and continuing education.
1995–1996: Project Manager/Senior Engineer, Moffatt & Nichol Engineers, Walnut Creek, CA.
Planned and managed waterfront and maritime projects on San Francisco Bay, the Sacramento River, and California and Nevada reservoirs and lakes.
Projects involved boating, vessel traffic management, regulatory markers, aids to navigation, boating safety, dredging, waterfront facilities, marinas, environmental compliance, and waterways issues and management.
1971–1995: Officer, US Army/US Coast Guard.
US Coast Guard Engineer Officer and Deck Watch Officer.
As a Coast Guard officer was a federal law enforcement officer and an officer of the customs. Attended the Marine Law Enforcement Course and the Boarding Officer Course.
As a Naval Engineer, was Chief, Icebreaker and Coastal Buoy Tender type desk. Responsible for engineering and changes to ships systems. Assisted in the design and acquisition of new cutters and barges.
Served as Deck Watch Officer on a large cutter performing marine safety, fisheries, treaties and drug enforcement and search and rescue missions.
As Civil Engineer, managed and designed projects involving docks, piers, other waterfront facilities, ranges and public works.
Held warrant as government contracting officer.
US Army Engineer and Signal Corps Officer in US, Germany and Korea.
Assignments include company commander, battalion executive officer, combat engineering, construction engineering, demolitions, and tactical communications as well as various staff and engineering positions.
Specialized Training
- Marine accident investigation and reconstruction, fire/arson investigation, damaged cargo/container inspection, maritime/boating safety, water survival, damage control, diving/underwater investigation, navigation, marine engineering, seamanship and incident management courses.
Marine and Boating Skills and Safety
- Basic Safety Training, STCW, US Navy Military Sealift Command and CMA
- Lifeboatman – Proficiency in Survival Craft, CMA
- Bridge Resource Management, CMA
- Advanced Radar Plotting Aids, CMA
- USCG Approved Signaling Course (Flashing Light), CMA
- Search and Rescue, USCG
- Deck Watch Officer Navigation Rules, USCG
- Navigation Rules, USCG Auxiliary
- Boating Skills and Seamanship, USCG Auxiliary
- Advanced Coastal Navigation, USCG Auxiliary
- Search and Rescue Specialist, USCG Auxiliary
- Weather Specialist, USCG Auxiliary
- Piloting Specialist, USCG Auxiliary
- Seamanship Specialist, USCG Auxiliary
- Patrols Specialist, USCG Auxiliary
- Communications Specialist, USCG Auxiliary
- Vessel Examiner, USCG Auxiliary
- Boat Crew Member, USCG Auxiliary
- Coxswain, USCG Auxiliary
- PWC Operator, USCG Auxiliary
- Auxiliary Operations, USCG Auxiliary
- Team Coordination Training, USCG Auxiliary
- Suddenly in Command, USCG Auxiliary
- How to Read a Nautical Chart, USCG Auxiliary
- GPS for Mariners, USCG Auxiliary
- Title 46 Commercial Fishing Vessel Examiner, NAVTECH
- Arizona Boating Education Course, Arizona Game & Fish
- Navigating Nevada, Nevada Dept. of Conservation and Natural Resources
- California Boating Safety Class, California Dept. of Boating and Waterways
- Utah’s Boating Course, Utah State Parks and Recreation
- New Mexico Boating Basics, New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Dept.
- Vessel Inspection and Decontamination of the Quagga and Zebra Mussel, Arizona Game and Fish
- Florida Boating Safety Course, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
- Arizona PWC Safety School, PWC SafetySchool.com
- Oregon Boating Safety Course, Boat Owners Association of the United States (BoatUS) Online
- Washington Boating Safety Course, Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission
- Digital Selective Calling Radio Tutorial, BoatUS
- Florida Boating Safety Education ID Card
- California Boating Safety Education Certification
- Oregon Boater Education
- Washington State Boater Education
- Idaho Parks and Recreation Boater Education
- Inflatable Life Jacket Education Presentation, National Safe Boating Council
- Paddleboat Safety Certificate #5495291RE
- Alaska Online Boating Safety Course, BoatUS Foundation
Marine and Boating Law Enforcement and Marine Accident Investigation and Reconstruction
- Marine Law Enforcement, USCG
- Boarding Officer, USCG
- Accident/Collision Investigation, ABYC
- Investigation Surveying of Marine Casualties, SAMS
- Yacht and Small Craft Insurance Policies, SAMS
- Investigations Seminar, SAMS
- Small Power Watercraft Damage and Claim Evaluation, First Marine Insurance Co.
- Watercraft Accident Investigation, AZ Game and Fish
- Watercraft Crash Investigation and Incident Reconstruction, Southeastern Public Safety Institute (St. Petersburg College, FL)
- Marine Investigations, IAMI Annual Training Seminar, 2005
- Marine Investigations, IAMI Annual Training Seminar, 2006
- Marine Investigations, IAMI Annual Training Seminar, 2009
- Marine Investigations, IAMI Annual Training Seminar, 2011 (Speaker: NFPA 1033 and NFPA 921 and Marine Fire Investigations)
- Marine Investigations, IAMI Annual Training Seminar, 2014 (Speaker: NFPA 1033 and NFPA 921 and Marine Fire Investigations; Speaker: NFPA 921 and a Marine Fire Investigation)
- Marine Investigations, IAMI Western Regional Training Seminar, 2017
- Marine Investigations, IAMI Western Regional Training Seminar, 2018 (Panel Member: What IAMI Does for Me!”)
- Marine Investigations, IAMI Western Regional Training Seminar, 2019
- Marine Investigations, IAMI Annual Training Seminar, 2019
- Navigation Rules for Marine Law Enforcement Officers, NASBLA
- Introduction to Digital Photography, US Coast Guard Auxiliary
- Cargo Damage, SUNY Maritime College
- Underwater Investigations, Dive Rescue International
- Cargo Surveying, NAVTECH
- Basics of Failure Investigations & Forensic Engineering, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- Forensic Engineering Part A, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- Forensic Engineering Part B, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- Forensic Engineering Part C, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- Practical Forensic Engineering – Property – Part 1, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- Practical Forensic Engineering – Property – Part 2, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- Basic Boating Accident Investigation and Reconstruction, CA Dept. of Boating and Waterways
- Advanced Boating Accident Investigation and Reconstruction, CA Dept. of Boating and Waterways
- Maritime Incident Investigation/Root Cause Analysis, American Bureau of Shipping
- Marine Accident Investigation, National Transportation Safety Board
- National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) National Boating Accident Investigation and Analysis Course Level 1 Comprehensive, NASBLA
- Computer Forensics and Data Recovery, International Association of Special Investigation Units
- Accident Investigation Basics: How to do a Workplace Accident Investigation, WA State Dept. of Labor & Industries
- Accident Investigation, Oregon OSHA
- OSHA Accident Investigations, Continuing Education and Development, Inc.
- Oregon Association of Licensed Investigators (OALI) Northwest Oregon Regional Seminar, Jan 2009
- OALI Annual Spring Seminar April 2009 (Speaker: Container Damaged Cargo Surveys)
- OALI Annual Spring Seminar March 2011
- OALI Annual Spring Seminar March 2013 (Speaker: Electro-Shock Drowning)
- OALI Annual Spring Seminar March 2019 (Speaker: Electro-Shock Drowning)
Marine Fire Fighting and Fire and Arson Investigation
- Basic Shipboard Fire Fighting, US Navy
- Basic Shipboard Damage Control, US Navy
- Advanced Shipboard Fire Fighting, US Navy Military Sealift Command
- Shipboard Fire Fighting, US Navy Military Sealift Command
- Basic Fire/Arson Investigation, AZ State Fire Marshal
- Arson I, AZ Chapter International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI)
- Arson II, AZ Chapter IAAI
- Principles of Fire Investigation Multi-Program, Certified Fire Investigator Training.net, (CFITrainer.net)
- Fire Investigation for Fire Officers Multi-Program, CFITrainer.net
- Ethics and the Fire Investigator, CFITrainer.net
- Fire Investigator Scene Safety, CFITrainer.net
- Investigating Motor Vehicle Fires, CFITrainer.net
- An Analysis of the Station Nightclub Fire, CFITrainer.net
- Digital Photography and the Fire Investigator, CFITrainer.net
- MagneTeK: A Case Study in the Dauber Challenge, CFITrainer.net
- The Scientific Method for Fire and Explosion Investigation, CFITrainer.net
- Introduction to Fire Dynamics and Modeling, CFITrainer.net
- Insurance and the Fire Investigation, CFITrainer.net
- Fire Dynamics Calculations, CFITrainer.net
- Introduction to Evidence, CFITrainer.net
- Critical Thinking Solves Cases, CFITrainer.net
- Physical Evidence at the Fire Scene, CFITrainer.net
- Documenting the Event, CFITrainer.net
- Understanding Fire Through the Candle Experiments, CFITrainer.net
- Investigating Fatal Fires, CFITrainer.net
- Managing Complex Fire Scene Investigations, CFITrainer.net
- Vacant and Abandoned Buildings: Hazards and Solutions, CFITrainer.net
- A Ventilation-Focused Approach to the Impact of Building Structures and Systems on Fire Development, CFITrainer.net
- Postflashover Fires, CFITrainer.net
- Fire and Explosion Investigations: Utilizing NFPA 1033 and 921, CFITrainer.net
- Motive, Means, and Opportunity: Determining Responsibility in an Arson Case, CFITrainer.net
- Arc Mapping Basics, CFITrainer.net
- Effective Investigation and Testimony, CFITrainer.net
- Preparation for the Marine Fire Scene, CFITrainer.net
- The HAZWOPER Standard, CFITrainer.net
- Evidence Examination: What Happens at the Lab? CFITrainer.net
- Fundamentals of Residential Building Construction, CFITrainer.net
- Wildland Fires Investigation, CFITrainer.net
- Electrical Safety, CFITrainer.net
- Fundamentals of Interviewing, CFITrainer.net
- Explosion Dynamics, CFITrainer.net
- Search and Seizure, CFITrainer.net
- DNA, CFITrainer.net
- Charleston Sofa Super Store Fire, CFITrainer.net
- The Fire Investigator and the 2011 NFPA 921 Changes, CFITrainer.net
- Fire Protection Systems, CFITrainer.net
- The Potential Value of Electronic Evidence in Fire Investigations, CFITrainer.net
- Writing the Initial Origin and Cause Report, CFITrainer.net
- Using Resources to Validate your Hypothesis, CFITrainer.net
- The Practical Application of the Relationship Between NFPA 1033 and NFPA 921, CFITrainer.net
- NFPA 1033 and Your Career, CFITrainer.net
- Ethics & Social Media, CFITrainer.net
- Basic Electricity, CFITrainer.net
- NFPA 921 and 1033 2014 Editions: Important Revisions, CFITrainer.net
- Residential Electrical Systems, CFITrainer.net
- Process of Elimination, CFITrainer.net
- The Deposition Part 1: Format, Content, and Preparation, CFITrainer.net
- The Deposition Part 2: Questioning Tactics and Effective Responses, CFITrainer.net
- Ethical Duties Beyond the Fire Scene, CFITrainer.net
- Understanding the Fire Investigator’s Job: A Guide for Non-Investigators, CFITrainer.net
- Thermometry, Heat, and Heat Transfer, CFITrainer.net
- What the Insurance Professional Needs to Know about Fire Investigation, CFITrainer.net
- Discovery in Criminal Cases, CFITrainer.net
- Discovery in Civil Cases, CFITrainer.net
- Fire Chemistry, CFITrainer.net
- Accreditation, Certification, and Certificates, CFITrainer.net
- Fire Investigation for Fire Officers, CFITrainer.net
- Understanding Undetermined, CFITrainer.net
- Fire Flow Analysis, CFITrainer.net
- Critical Evaluation and Testing of Commonly Reported Accidental Causes, CFITrainer.net
- Introduction to Appliances, CFITrainer.net
- How First Responders Impact the Fire Investigation, CFITrainer.net
- Preventing Occupational Exposures to Carcinogens at the Fire Scene, CFITrainer.net
- Lithium-Ion Battery Fires, CFITrainer.net
- Photovoltaic Cells and Systems, CFITrainer.net
- Safety and Health Guidelines for Fire & Explosion Investigators, AZ Chapter IAAI
- Kirk’s Fire Investigation, AZ Chapter IAAI
- FI-110 Wildland Fire Observations and Origin Scene Protection for First Responders, National Wildfire Coordinating Group
- Expert Witness Courtroom Testimony Course, AZ Chapter IAAI
- Anticipating and Surviving Rule 104 Hearings on Cause and Origin Testimony, OR Chapter IAAI
- Coaxial Cable Fires, OR Chapter IAAI
- Advanced Use of Computer Aided Design in Fire Investigation, OR Chapter IAAI
- Case Review Explosion and Fire December 10, 2008 Resulted in Arson I Measure 11 Conviction, OR Chapter IAAI
- Scene Reconstruction at the Right Place at the Right Time, OR Chapter IAAI
- 35th Annual Training Conference, OR Chapter IAAI 2013
- 36th Annual Training Conference, OR Chapter IAAI 2014
- Advanced Arson Investigative Techniques for the Insurance Industry, IAAI
- Effective Investigation and Testimony, IAAI
- Marine Fire Investigation, Louisiana Association of Arson Investigators, IAAI
- Strengthening Relationships Between Public & Private Sector Fire Investigators & Addressing Ethical Considerations, IAAI
- Boating – Marine Fires, CA Dept. of Parks and Recreation
- What Every Engineer Should Know About Fire Protection, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
Marine Engineering and Technical Courses
- Basic Marine Engines and Systems, ABYC
- Marine Gas Engines, ABYC
- Marine Electrical Systems, ABYC
- Marine Corrosion, ABYC
- Marine Systems, ABYC
- ABYC Standards, ABYC
- Rigging Seminar, SAMS
- Marine Electrical Systems Seminar, Ocean Navigator
- Marine Wiring and Systems Inspection, SAMS Seminar
- Electrical Inspection for Surveyors, SAMS Seminar
- Marina Electrical Safety Seminar, Harbor Marine Consultants
- Bonding and Grounding Electrical Systems, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice, American Society of Appraisers (ASA)
- Appraising Marine Assets, ASA
- Marine Asset Appraisal, Norm Laskey (2017 and 2019)
- Corrosion Control, NAVTECH
- Basics of Composite Repair, Abaris Training Resources
- Container Inspection Seminar, SAMS
- Stability for Fisherman, National Cargo Bureau
- Damage Stability, National Cargo Bureau
- Centrifugal Pumps, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- Pump Suction Characteristics, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- Pumps and Pumping Systems, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- Centrifugal Pump Selection, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- Hot-Dip Galvanizing: Corrosion Protection, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- Engineering Ethics, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- National Electric Code Article 430 Motor Calculations, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- Mechanical Systems I, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- Welding Technology, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- Kayak & Canoe Launch Design, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- Dredging and the Environment – Part 1, Dredging 101, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- Dredging and the Environment – Part 2, Dredging of Contaminated Sediments, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- An Introduction to Pond and Lake Dredging, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- Marina Site Analysis, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- Mooring Field Layout and Design, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- Electrical Engineering Fundamentals for Non-Electrical Engineers, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- Nondestructive Examination, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- An Introduction to the Analysis and Design of Bolted Connections, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- Industrial and Systems Engineering, Florida PE Continuing Education Course
- Introduction to GIS and GPS for Engineers and Surveyors, FL PE Continuing Education Course
- Fundamentals of Steel – Part A, FL PE Continuing Education Course
- Earthwork Basics, FL PE Continuing Education Course
- Solar Panel Installation, FL PE Continuing Education Course
- Introduction to Reverse Osmosis Desalination, FL PE Continuing Education Course
- Water Storage Tanks, FL PE Continuing Education Course
- Understand Sensors Part 1, PE Continuing Education Course
- External Ballistics Primer for Engineers – Part I: Aerodynamics & Projectile Motion, PE Continuing Education Course
- Principles of Resistance, Westlawn Institute of Marine Technology
- Stability, Westlawn Institute of Marine Technology
- Hydrostatics, Westlawn Institute of Marine Technology
- Fiberglass Boatbuilding: Materials and Methods, Westlawn Institute of Marine Technology
- Fiberglass Boatbuilding Production Methods, Westlawn Institute of Marine Technology
- Operational Test Director Qualification Course, U S Navy Operational Test and Evaluation Force
- Propeller Selection for Boats and Small Ships, ProBoat E-Training
- Load Capacity and Flotation, ProBoat E-Training
- OSHA 30 Hour General Industry Outreach Training Program, OSHA Pro’s, Inc.
- Applying Infrared Imaging to Marine Surveying: Shore Power Cords and Electrical Outlets, Allinson Infrared Inspection Services, Inc.
- Basic Marine Electronics Installer Course, NMEA
- Advanced Marine Electronics Installer Course, NMEA
- NMEA 2000® Networking Course, NMEA
- Changes to the 2011 ABYC Standards for Small Craft, ABYC Webinar
- ABYC Standards Week, 2010
- ABYC Standards Week, 2012
- ABYC Supplement 57 Update Webinar
- Electric Shock Drowning–The Invisible Killer: Part I, Vessel Electrical Safety, ABYC Webinar
- Electric Shock Drowning–The Invisible Killer: Part II, Marina Electrical Safety, ABYC Webinar
- Complete Guide to Overcurrent Protection, ABYC Online Learning Course
- Bilge Pump Mounting and Orientation, ABYC Online Learning Course
- Shipboard Corrosion Assessment Training, National Association of Corrosion Engineers
- Annual Survey of Towing Vessels, TVIB
- Masterclass in Marine Warranty Surveying, Mike Wall & Associates, Ltd.
- TPO Towing Vessel Surveyor Course, First Coast Maritime Consulting, LLC
Marine and Boating Instruction/Training and Assessor Courses/Designations
- International Maritime Organization Instructor, Supervisor and Assessor Qualification Course, RTM Simulation, Training, Assessment & Research Center
- Arizona Boating Education Instructor Training Course, Arizona Game and Fish Dept.
- Boat Oregon Instructor Training Course, Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB)
- Mandatory Boater Education Program Course Provider’s Workshop, 2009, OSMB
- Mandatory Boater Education Program Course Provider’s Workshop, 2012, OSMB
- Mandatory Boater Education Program Course Provider’s Workshop, 2014, OSMB
- Instructor for the Boat Oregon Instructor Training Course, Oregon State Marine Board
- Boating Safety Instructor Certification Course, Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission
- Instructor, USCG Auxiliary
- Building Effective Training, USCG Auxiliary
- Instructor, IAMI
- Survival Equipment, Procedures and Onboard Drills (ALMSEA-490) (Commercial Fishing Vessel Drill Leader), Alaska Marine Safety Education Association
Marine Surveyor Seminars
- NAMS North Pacific Region Annual Seminar, 2021 (Speaker: NAMS Ethics. Speaker: Marine Accident Investigation and Reconstruction).
- NAMS Annual Seminar, 2021.
- SAMS Pacific Region Annual Seminar, 2020.
- SAMS Annual Seminar, 2019.
- NAMS North Pacific Region Annual Seminar, 2019 (Speaker: Ethics).
- NAMS Annual Seminar, 2019.
- SAMS Pacific Region Annual Seminar, 2019.
- SAMS Gulf Regional Seminar, 2018
- SAMS Annual Seminar, 2018. (Speaker: USCG Commercial Fishing Vessel Safety Exams).
- NAMS Annual Seminar, 2018.
- SAMS Pacific Region Annual Seminar, 2018. (Speaker: Kinetic Energy, Momentum and Inertia).
- NAMS North Pacific Regional Seminar, October 2017 (Speaker: Ethics).
- NAMS Annual Seminar, 2017 (FV Panel Co-Moderator: The New USCG Voluntary Safety Initiatives and Good Marine Practices for Commercial Fishing Industry Vessels Program.)
- SAMS Pacific Region Annual Seminar, 2017. (Speaker: Underwater Investigations).
- Knox Marine Consultants Yacht Claims Conference 2017.
- SAMS Annual Seminar, 2016.
- NAMS West Gulf Regional Meeting, September 2016.
- NAMS Annual Seminar, 2016 (Speaker: Case Study: NFPA 921 and a Marine Fire Investigation; and Carbon Monoxide Poisoning. FV Panel Co-Moderator: Common Discrepancies on FV Safety Examinations).
- SAMS Pacific Region Annual Meeting and Educational Seminar, 2016. (Speaker: Case Study: NFPA 921 and a Marine Fire Investigation).
- NAMS North Pacific Regional Seminar, 2015 (Speaker: Case Study: NFPA 921 and a Marine Fire Investigation).
- SAMS Annual Seminar, 2015 (Speaker: Commercial Workboat Surveys/46 CFR Subchapter M Towing Vessel Regulations).
- SAMS Gulf Regional Meeting and Educational Seminar, 2015 (Speaker: Commercial Workboat Specialty Designation and SAMS Planning for the Implementation of 46 CFR Subchapter M).
- NAMS Annual Seminar, 2015 (Speaker: USCG Commercial Fishing Vessel Safety Exams; Panel Moderator: Updates and Interpretations on USCG Commercial Fishing Vessel Safety Exams).
- SAMS Canadian and Pacific Regions Annual Meeting and Educational Seminar, 2015.
- NAMS Annual Seminar, 2014 (Panel Moderator: Surveying Fishing Vessels to USCG, OSHA and Industry Standards)
- SAMS Annual Seminar, 2014
- SAMS Pacific Regional Annual Meeting, 2014 (Speaker: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning; Speaker: Underwater Investigations)
- NAMS Annual Seminar, 2013
- SAMS Annual Seminar, 2013
- SAMS Pacific Regional Annual Seminar, 2013 (Speaker: Case Study: NFPA 921 and a Marine Fire Investigation)
- SAMS Pacific Regional Annual Seminar, 2012 (Speaker: Introduction to Marine Accident Investigation)
- NAMS Annual Eastern Seminar, 2011 (Speaker: NAMS Ethics Policy and Grievance Procedures; Panel Moderator: Surveying Yachts and Small Craft to Standards)
- SAMS Pacific Northwest Sub-Regional Seminar, 2011
- NAMS Annual Western Seminar, 2010 (Speaker: NAMS Ethics Policy and Grievance Procedures)
- SAMS Pacific Regional Annual Seminar, 2010 (Speaker: NFPA 1033 and NFPA 921 and Marine Fire Investigations)
- NAMS Annual Western Seminar, 2009 (Speaker: NFPA 1033 and NFPA 921 and Marine Fire Investigations; Speaker: Container Damaged Cargo Surveys)
- SAMS Pacific Regional Annual Seminar, 2009 (Speaker: Container Damaged Cargo Surveys)
- SAMS Pacific Northwest Sub-Regional Seminar, 2008
- SAMS Pacific Regional Annual Seminar, 2008
- SAMS Annual Seminar, 2007
- SAMS Pacific Regional Annual Seminar, 2007
- NAMS Annual Western Seminar, 2006
- SAMS Pacific Regional Annual Seminar, 2006
- SAMS Pacific Regional Annual Seminar, 2005
- SAMS Southern California Sub-Regional Seminar, 2004
ABYC Webinars Presented
- Case Study: NFPA 921 and a Marine Fire Investigation, April 2011
- Introduction to Marine Accident Investigation, July 2011
Expert Witness (Last 4 Years)
Expert Testimony
- Berry v. Matson Navigation Co., et. al., Superior Court of the State of California County of Alameda, April 2019. Testified as an expert in marine accident investigation and reconstruction, marine safety and vessel construction.
- Boton v. Cape San Lucas Fishing, LLC, et. al., Superior Court of Washington in and for King County, August 2018. Testified as an expert in marine accident investigation and reconstruction, marine engineering and marine safety.
Depositions
- Estate of Willard v. Liquid Waste Technology, LLC, d/b/a Ellicott Dredge Technologies, United States District Court for the District of Connecticut, November 2021. Deposed as an expert in marine safety, vessel stability, dredging, marine training and commercial workboats.
- Steven M. Nelson v United States of America by and through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, United States District Court for the District of Oregon Portland District (3) October 2021.
- Deposed as an expert in marine safety, marine engineering and vessel maintenance.
- Jonathan C. Cabading v. The Port of Portland, Kinder Morgan, et. al., United States District Court for the District of Oregon, Portland Division, September and October 2021. Deposed as an expert in line handling, vessel operations, pier construction and maintenance and marine safety.
- Theut v. Aramark, et. al., and Darland v. National Park Service, et. al., various courts, April 2021. Deposed as an in marine accident investigation and reconstruction and marine safety.
- Meador v. Aramark Sports and Entertainment Services, LLC. United States District Court for the District of Arizona. October 2020. Deposed as a expert in marine accident investigation and reconstruction and marine safety.
- Berry v. Matson Navigation Co., et. al., Superior Court of the State of California county of Alameda, February 2019. Deposed as a marine safety expert.
- Hubair v. Miller Electric Manufacturing, et. al., US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois Eastern Division. Deposed as an expert in marine and shipboard electricity.
- Galeon v. APL. et. al. US District Court for the Central District of California, December 2018. Deposed as a marine safety expert.
- Safra v. HAL, et. al., US District Court Western District of Washington in Seattle, November 2018. Deposed as an expert in marine safety and marine safety management systems.
- Boton v. Cape San Lucas Fishing, LLC, et. al., Superior Court of Washington in and for King County, August 2018. Deposed as an expert in marine accident investigation and reconstruction, marine engineering and marine safety.
- Prince v. Regal Marine Industries, Inc., Grand Bay Marine, Inc., and Eldean Company, US District Court in the Western District of Michigan, Southern Division, December 2017. Deposed as an expert in vessel construction.
Marine Insurance Damage Claim Dispute Umpire
Several times I have been chosen by two marine surveyors as the “Umpire” in a dispute over the cause of damage to vessel as part of an insurance claim. The two surveyors, one working for the insurance company and one working for the assured, disagreed on the cause of damage and, in accordance with the insurance policy’s appraisal clause, a disinterested surveyor was chosen to umpire the dispute. My findings as to the cause of the loss were binding.
Publications (Last 10 years.)
Available on full CV
Professional Memberships
- Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (Chair, Tug and Barge Committee, 2014–2015; Chair Commercial Workboat Committee, 2015–; Chair, Tug and Barge Committee, 2018-).
- National Association of Marine Surveyors, (Chair, Ethics Committee, 2010–; NFPA Liaison, 2012– ; Chair, Commercial Fishing Vessel Program, 2012 – ;Chair, Commercial Fishing Vessel Technical Committee,
- 2012–2014; Co-Chair, Commercial Fishing Vessel Technical Committee, 2014– ; Member, Towing Vessel Subchapter M Committee, 2015-; Member, Qualifications and Certifications Committee 2018-)
- Towing Vessel Inspection Bureau (Member, Surveyor Certification Subcommittee, 2016 -; Member, Surveyor Technical Advisory Committee, 2017-; Member, Board of Directors 2018-).
- International Association of Marine Investigators (Northwest Regional Coordinator, 2015 -)
- International Association of Arson Investigators
- International Association of Arson Investigators, Oregon Chapter
- National Association of Fire Investigators
- American Boat and Yacht Council
- National Fire Protection Association (Member, Technical Committee, NFPA 302 Fire Protection Standard for Pleasure and Commercial Motor Craft, 2012–; Member, Technical Committee, NFPA 301 Code for
- Safety to Life from Fire on Merchant Vessels, 2013–)
- California Boating Safety Officers Association
- US Coast Guard Auxiliary (retired)
- Boat Owners Association of the United States
- Oregon Association of Licensed Investigators
- North Pacific Fishing Vessel Owners Association Vessel Safety Program
- Alaska Marine Safety Education Association
