AUVSI Announces Formation of Committee to Develop Uncrewed Maritime Systems Operator Training & Certification

October 24, 2024

New Program Will Set Industry Standards for Training and Proficiency in Uncrewed Maritime Systems Operations

Arlington, VA – The Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) is proud to announce the formation of a new committee dedicated to developing a comprehensive certification program for uncrewed maritime systems operators. This initiative will focus on setting industry-wide standards for training, proficiency, and operational safety, ensuring that UMS operators are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to safely navigate the complex maritime environment.

Building on the success of AUVSI’s Trusted Operator Program (TOP) for uncrewed aerial systems (UAS), this new certification program will be the first of its kind, tailored specifically to the unique challenges faced by operators of uncrewed systems in the maritime domain. The program will cover areas such as navigation, vessel recovery, underwater communication, and coordination with manned vessels.

“AUVSI has long been a leader in setting standards for uncrewed systems operations,” said Casie Ocana, Director of Trusted Programs at AUVSI. “With the growing use of maritime uncrewed systems across commercial, research, and defense sectors, it’s essential that we establish a clear framework to ensure operator proficiency, safety, and compliance with regulatory requirements.”

Led by Co-Chairs Jason McKenna and Mike Smitsky, the committee will bring together experts from across the maritime and uncrewed systems sectors, including training providers, regulators, and industry leaders. These founding members, including representatives from ABS, Chance Maritime, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Exail, the Hydrographic Department of the Naval Oceanographic Office, Kongsberg, Leidos, the National Center for Autonomous Technologies, Ness-Sea Consulting, NOAA, SUNY Maritime College, the University of Delaware, and the University of Southern Mississippi, will collaborate to design a training and certification framework that meets the diverse needs of UMS operators and addresses the evolving demands of this rapidly expanding industry.

Key objectives of the committee include:

• Developing a tiered certification program with specific training and proficiency benchmarks for various levels of UMS operations
• Establishing standardized training modules that address both theoretical knowledge and practical skills
• Collaborating with regulatory bodies to ensure alignment with current and future regulations

This certification initiative will provide a benchmark for training providers and operators, fostering trust across the industry and enhancing the safety, efficiency, and reliability of maritime uncrewed systems operations.

For more information or to express interest in joining the committee, please contact Casie Ocaña at cocana@auvsi.org or visit www.auvsi.org/trusted-operator-maritime.