2023 AAUS Diving for Science Symposium

The 2023 AAUS Diving for Science Symposium will be hosted by the University of West Florida in Pensacola, Florida, from April 23-29, 2023. **Please note that all times are in CENTRAL time.


We welcome diving scientists, students, diving safety officers, and anyone with an interest in diving science to participate in this event. The week will be filled with instructional workshops such as Serious Accident Investigation both topside and underwater, to technical workshops ranging from technician certifications, underwater photogrammetry and acoustic imagery, to diving workshops covering surface supplied diving, low visibility and managing divers with acoustics, tours of an underwater cypress forest, San Pablo shipwreck and the USS Oriskany, and much more! Following the workshop opportunities and social/networking events, we will wrap up the week with the national DSO meeting, science symposium, and annual awards banquet. 


If you are a member of AAUS, please login before proceeding to register.  If you are not a member of AAUS, you must create an account to register for this meeting.  This DOES NOT give you a membership in AAUS, it simply provides a temporary account for registration. If you wish to join as an AAUS member, please visit www.aaus.org/Join. 
 
If participants wish to bring a guest to the Bubble Breaker or Banquet, they should register themselves first and then complete a separate Guest registration to purchase a Companion Ticket for those events. Tours and experiences are also available for guest registration.

If you wish to participate in a workshop offering ONLY, please choose the “Workshop ONLY” registration option. Please note that workshop only participants do not gain entrance to any social, networking, or science meetings.

Most events/workshops will be held in walkable downtown Pensacola, with the FPAN office serving as our home base (207 E Main St, Pensacola, FL 32502). For those events held in other locations, transportation will be provided (with the exception of USS Oriskany charter diving, where limited transportation may be available). Times indicated on the schedule are the start times for workshops. Communication closer to event will indicate meet times if transportation is provided.  

Lunch is provided for ALL DAY workshops only.

 


When
4/23/2023 8:00 AM - 4/29/2023 10:00 PM
Where
Pensacola, FL 32502 UNITED STATES

Program

   

Sunday, 23 April 2023

Description
The first day of the workshop will provide participants with training in how to conduct a serious accident investigation (SAI) for a diving accident. Workshop leaders will describe a template for setting up a SAI team, assignment of duties for team members, and, techniques used in the process of an investigation. Participants will be given examples of previous dive accident investigations, including the investigative techniques used. The second day of the workshop will provide a hands-on experience, requiring participants to investigate a simulated dive accident.  See program for 3/28/22  *Lunch Provided
Time
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
9:00 AM

Monday, 24 April 2023

Description
In the classroom, participants will learn about the incredible history of the San Pablo shipwreck off Pensacola, Florida. Following a short presentation (~45mins), participants will take a dive charter to the site for an archaeologist-led tour.
Time
8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
8:00 AM

When you reflect on past scientific dives and the challenges you faced when collecting quality data, especially when things didn't go to plan, were those failures down to technical or equipment failures? Or were they down to miscommunication, lack of role clarity, incomplete information to make a decision, or a failure to learn previous lessons identified? This one day workshop will help facilitate safer and more productive scientific diving techniques by learning and developing your knowledge and practice surrounding Human Factors in Diving. This workshop combines theory, case studies, and practical exercises to facilitate your goal of running safer and more productive scientific diving programs.  **Lunch NOT provided for this workshop
Time
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
9:00 AM

The OTS Divator MKII full-face mask technical/maintenance course will provide hands on training in the following areas of the Divator MKII system: Function of the regulator and mask. Inspection of the external components. Breakdown of the second stage regulator. Breakdown of the mask body. Parts identification. Inspection and cleaning of the internal components. Repair and replacement of parts. Re-assembly of the second stage regulator. Re-assembly of the mask body. Adjusting the second stage regulator. Testing the regulator with the Interspiro Mini Test Kit. Troubleshooting the regulator. Registrants receive a Bonus Pack including: 6-in-1 Screwdriver Applicator with Silicone Grease Gauge card for adjustments Certified Technician T-Shirt Divator MKII Service Manual Time requirements:   Six hours of classroom instruction, excluding breaks and lunch. Required Items:   Divator MKII FFM (If student has no access to a mask, please advise, these materials can be provided at no additional cost.) Recommended Items:           Interspiro Mini Test Kit ($209.00), pre-ordered on registration form. Minor maintenance Kit ($139.00) pre-ordered on registration form is required if mask is to be serviced during class.  Upon completion of class the student will receive Interspiro Service Certification - valid for five years. NOTE: This course MUST be registered for at the link below. Pricing and pre-requisites to be set by the vendor. Selecting this listing only to allows this workshop to show on your overall AAUS agenda for the week but does not complete registration. To register for either the Interspiro Divator MKII or OTS Guardian Technician courses, please follow the link below for class details and registration forms.  Note that to access the Interspiro information, scroll down and select the proper tab. https://www.oceantechnologysystems.com/tech-courses/ Cost: $215 If you have any questions, feel free to contact Amie at [email protected] or John at [email protected]
Time
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
9:00 AM

The first day of the workshop will provide participants with training in how to conduct a serious accident investigation (SAI) for a diving accident. Workshop leaders will describe a template for setting up a SAI team, assignment of duties for team members, and, techniques used in the process of an investigation. Participants will be given examples of previous dive accident investigations, including the investigative techniques used. The second day of the workshop will provide a hands-on experience, requiring participants to investigate a simulated dive accident.  *Lunch Provided
Time
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
9:00 AM

Divers will have the opportunity to survey an ancient underwater forest that has been dated to approximately 60,000 years old. Two dives offshore on the underwater cypress forest. Depth is 60-80ft sea water.  Participants must provide an LOR. Cylinders and Weights provided, all other gear must be supplied by participant. Lunch and water provided. There may be significant transit time involved for this workshop.  Please plan for 7am meet time.
Time
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
9:00 AM

This clinic is for active Dive Rite technicians looking to renew or for those who are just getting started as a technician. The clinic will cover servicing the XT1, FT1, XT2 and the RG5400 regulators. **Prerequisite - Current reg tech certification from any manufacturer.  NOTE: This course MUST be registered for at the link below. Pricing and pre-requisites to be set by the vendor. Selecting this listing only to allows this workshop to show on your overall AAUS agenda for the week but does not complete registration. Cost $200.   For more information and registration, contact John MCCain - [email protected]
Time
1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
1:00 PM

This documentary is about a tragic and avoidable accident which took place during a diver training course in May 2018. As with many adverse events, there were many contributory and causal factors involved. With hindsight, it is easy to spot them, but in real time, they aren't so obvious. Especially, when they happen relatively frequently without any adverse consequences. This documentary is sponsored by Human Diver. Please consider a $25 donation to The Ashley Bugge Scholarship Fund.
Time
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
6:00 PM

Tuesday, 25 April 2023

Description
The USS Oriskany, affectionately referred to as “The Mighty O” was a U.S. Navy Essex-class aircraft carrier named for the Revolutionary War Battle of the same name. Originally rushed to construction as part of the war effort, the USS Oriskany (CV/CVA-34) was designed as an Essex-class aircraft carrier. When World War II ended, construction was slowed, and then suspended in 1947 for redesign. Design modifications included adjustments to the hull for stability, and adjustments to the flight deck and elevators so that they could handle heavier aircraft. The redesigned Oriskany was finally commissioned on September 25, 1950. In 1951, the Oriskany was once again redesigned, and fitted with a new, wider, flight deck to accommodate a higher volume of take-offs and landings. In 1956, the Oriskany underwent additional deck redesigns, and was refitted with steam-powered catapults, which were used to launch departing aircraft from the flight deck. The USS Oriskany earned two battle stars during the Korean War, and another five during the Vietnam War. During the Vietnam War, the Oriskany launched more sorties and flew more missions than any other US Navy Carrier. The USS Oriskany was sunk approximately 24 miles South East of Pensacola, Florida as an artificial reef in May of 2006. She now rests upright in 215ft of water. . **Included in the price is tanks, weights, water, light snacks and a sandwich. **Gear may be rented in advance.  **Nitrox extra and must be reserved in advance.
Time
7:00 AM - 3:00 PM
7:00 AM

In this workshop, participants will learn the basics of taking photographs underwater toward the production of basic, photogrammetric models. Dives on a local shipwreck site (TBD) will provide participants with the opportunity to practice their new skills. Following the dives, the workshop instructor will process participants' photos to create photogrammetric models that they can access online.
Time
7:00 AM - 12:00 PM
7:00 AM

Become a DAN Instructor! When you become a DAN instructor you help build a better trained and skill-equipped diving community and you can develop a highly qualified dive staff.  *Lunch Provided
Time
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
8:00 AM

This workshop will provide a hands-on experience using sector scanning sonar to monitor dive operations and guide dive activities from the surface.  Participants will learn the principles involved with integrating sonar into active dive operations and will have the opportunity to experience each of the roles involved—topside supervisor, tethered diver, dive tender, and sonar operator.
Time
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
8:00 AM

PSI-PCI is the leader in Visual Cylinder Inspection® (VCI) training.  It has been our core business for over 35 years.  Our dedication to cylinder safety is unmatched in the industry and our VCI training is the only training available that the cylinder manufacturers use, refer to and formally endorse.  We are also the only training for VCI that is recognized by law making entities such as the USDOT, Compressed Gas Association, NIOSH, OSHA and others.  You will learn about aluminum, steel and composite cylinders - their makeup, manufacturing process, safety concerns and inspection requirements.  Our training also provides an overview of other associated subjects such as hydro requalifying, valves, O2 cleaning and more.  Get real information with real world applications.  As a PSI-PCI Inspector you have access to accurate information, professional consultation and superior support when you need it.  This training is open to everyone, whether you need to inspect cylinders or just want to know about the process.  Join the professional team of Inspectors at PSI-PCI, Inc.  You too can be a part of the Cylinder Safety Solution! NOTE: This course MUST be registered for at the link below. Pricing and pre-requisites to be set by the vendor. Selecting this listing only to allows this workshop to show on your overall AAUS agenda for the week but does not complete registration. Click here to register:  http://www.psicylinders.com/regional-training  Course Cost - $325 to be paid upon registration
Time
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
8:00 AM

The Living in the Mud Workshop is a one day hands on full immersion participation experience which will explore the issues involved with training and working in a zero to near zero visibility diving environment. The morning session will include a panel led audience participation discussion of current best practices in use in the field and safety concerns when teaching new scientific divers to operate low to zero visibility situations. The afternoon session will consist of in-water practice navigating an obstacle course with multiple problem solving and learning stations while wearing a blackout mask. Participants must provide an LOR *Lunch Provided
Time
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
9:00 AM

The OTS Guardian full-face mask technical/maintenance course will provide hands on training in the following areas of the Guardian FFM system: Function of the regulator and mask. Inspection of the external components. Breakdown of the second stage regulator. Breakdown of the mask body. Parts identification. Inspection and cleaning of the internal components. Repair and replacement of parts. Re-assembly of the second stage regulator. Re-assembly of the mask body. Adjusting the second stage regulator. Testing the regulator with the Magnahelic. Troubleshooting the regulator. Tool kit includes: Manual 6-in-1 Screwdriver Applicator with Silicone Grease Regulator adjustment tool/gauge Pin wrench Dummy plug OTS backing/valve wrench Inner clamp ring socket T-handle hex key, 3/32 T-handle hex key, 7/64” Snap ring pliers Exploded view Bench Mat GFFM Technician Tee-Shirt (please note size on registration) Time requirements:              Six hours of classroom instruction, excluding breaks and lunch. Required Items:  Guardian FFM (If student has no access to a mask, please advise, these materials can be provided at no additional cost.) Upon completion of class the student will receive OTS Service Certification - valid for three years. NOTE: This course MUST be registered for at the link below. Pricing and pre-requisites to be set by the vendor. Selecting this listing only to allows this workshop to show on your overall AAUS agenda for the week but does not complete registration. To register for either the Interspiro Divator MKII or OTS Guardian Technician courses, please follow the link below for class details and registration forms.  Note that to access the Interspiro information, scroll down and select the proper tab. https://www.oceantechnologysystems.com/tech-courses/ Cost: $125+ tool kit. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Amie at [email protected] or John at [email protected].
Time
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
9:00 AM

Wednesday, 26 April 2023

Description
The USS Oriskany, affectionately referred to as “The Mighty O” was a U.S. Navy Essex-class aircraft carrier named for the Revolutionary War Battle of the same name. Originally rushed to construction as part of the war effort, the USS Oriskany (CV/CVA-34) was designed as an Essex-class aircraft carrier. When World War II ended, construction was slowed, and then suspended in 1947 for redesign. Design modifications included adjustments to the hull for stability, and adjustments to the flight deck and elevators so that they could handle heavier aircraft. The redesigned Oriskany was finally commissioned on September 25, 1950. In 1951, the Oriskany was once again redesigned, and fitted with a new, wider, flight deck to accommodate a higher volume of take-offs and landings. In 1956, the Oriskany underwent additional deck redesigns, and was refitted with steam-powered catapults, which were used to launch departing aircraft from the flight deck. The USS Oriskany earned two battle stars during the Korean War, and another five during the Vietnam War. During the Vietnam War, the Oriskany launched more sorties and flew more missions than any other US Navy Carrier. The USS Oriskany was sunk approximately 24 miles South East of Pensacola, Florida as an artificial reef in May of 2006. She now rests upright in 215ft of water.
Time
7:00 AM - 3:00 PM
7:00 AM

In the classroom, participants will learn about the incredible history of the San Pablo shipwreck off Pensacola, Florida. Following a short presentation (~45mins), participants will take a dive charter to the site for an archaeologist-led tour.
Time
8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
8:00 AM

**Duplicate offering.  This is a half day workshop only.** This workshop will provide a hands-on experience regarding the initial investigation of a scuba diving fatality.   Participants will learn the tools and techniques involved with the initial investigation of a scuba accident.  Hands-on practice with a simulated diving accident scenario will be provided. The procedures used for documentation, securing evidence, and recovering the victim will be discussed and employed during the mock investigation. Participants must provide a LOR.
Time
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
8:00 AM

This program is designed to provide an orientation for new Diving Safety Officers and for existing DSO's who would like more information and an update on particulars of running a Diving Safety Program at their respective institutions or organizations.  Essential training for anyone considering accepting or assuming the role of Diving Safety Officer and planning on operating an AAUS Diving Safety Program.  Also open to non AAUS organizations who would like more information about AAUS.  This orientation is now required for any DSO new to an AAUS organizational member (must be completed within one year of hire). *Lunch Provided
Time
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
9:00 AM

**This workshop is free and drop-ins encouraged. Professional divers, Dive Safety Officers, and Public Safety Dive teams have always understood the distinct advantages of full-face mask systems to best provide functionality, performance, and safety for the divers in the various environments with which they perform. However, the industry has expanded beyond the original norms of military, commercial, and public safety applications to a much broader marketplace of maintenance support, inspection, and public communications for aquariums, scientific diving applications, research, live broadcast capabilities for HD streaming with audio, recreational divers, quarries, and other underwater themed activities. Our goal at OCEAN REEF has been to take the past, move it into the future, and create the most innovative, and we feel best IDM (Integrated Dive Mask) solutions for present day full-face professionals. OCEAN REEF is industry-unique by offering the greatest visibility in the marketplace. When accompanied with the fully integrated balanced second stage built into the mask itself, OCEAN REEF finds itself offering unparalleled performance and reliability for the full-face diver. Couple that performance with cutting edge communication products for wireless, hard wire, and video, and proprietary rail systems for support that offer the professional diver the ability to capture all the industry can provide, you will have the full power of OCEAN REEF. Aquarist systems, Alpha Gamma systems, Alpha Pro, and the L.A. Project offers solutions to all your surface to diver, diver to surface, aquarium, underwater documentary, and video recovery verification needs for the professional diver. This seminar will bring familiarity to our products and provide solutions for your needs as a dive professional in whatever field of expertise you perform. Come see what OCEAN REEF has to offer the professional full-face diver. Come see what you have been missing in the market!
Time
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
9:00 AM

Provide participants with brief classroom education followed by hands-on experience with surface supply air diving used to expand scope and safety of diving operations. Participants would have the opportunity to learn about the pros and cons of surface supply diving, observe box operation, learn tending skills, dive in the surface supply mode, and practice using wired comms as both a surface support person and a diver.  Participant must supply exposure protection and fins.  All other gear will be provided. Participants must provide a LOR.  *Lunch Provided
Time
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
9:00 AM

Divers will have the opportunity to survey an ancient underwater forest that has been dated to approximately 60,000 years old. Two dives offshore on the underwater cypress forest. Depth is 60-80ft sea water.  Participants must provide an LOR. Cylinders and Weights provided, all other gear must be supplied by participant. Lunch and water provided. There may be significant transit time involved for this workshop.  Please plan for 7am meet time. Participants must provide an LOR. Cylinders and Weights provided, all other gear must be supplied by participant. Lunch and water provided. There may be significant transit time involved for this workshop.  Please plan for a longer day.
Time
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
9:00 AM

In this workshop, participants will join an in-depth exploration of how acoustic imagery from side scan and multi-beam sonar can be utilized for research in underwater environments. Participants will have the opportunity to see typical equipment, go through acoustic imagery data, and learn how to identify a variety of submerged natural and cultural features.
Time
1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
1:00 PM

**This workshop is free and drop-ins encouraged. Professional divers, Dive Safety Officers, and Public Safety Dive teams have always understood the distinct advantages of full-face mask systems to best provide functionality, performance, and safety for the divers in the various environments with which they perform. However, the industry has expanded beyond the original norms of military, commercial, and public safety applications to a much broader marketplace of maintenance support, inspection, and public communications for aquariums, scientific diving applications, research, live broadcast capabilities for HD streaming with audio, recreational divers, quarries, and other underwater themed activities. Our goal at OCEAN REEF has been to take the past, move it into the future, and create the most innovative, and we feel best IDM (Integrated Dive Mask) solutions for present day full-face professionals. OCEAN REEF is industry-unique by offering the greatest visibility in the marketplace. When accompanied with the fully integrated balanced second stage built into the mask itself, OCEAN REEF finds itself offering unparalleled performance and reliability for the full-face diver. Couple that performance with cutting edge communication products for wireless, hard wire, and video, and proprietary rail systems for support that offer the professional diver the ability to capture all the industry can provide, you will have the full power of OCEAN REEF. Aquarist systems, Alpha Gamma systems, Alpha Pro, and the L.A. Project offers solutions to all your surface to diver, diver to surface, aquarium, underwater documentary, and video recovery verification needs for the professional diver. This seminar will bring familiarity to our products and provide solutions for your needs as a dive professional in whatever field of expertise you perform. Come see what OCEAN REEF has to offer the professional full-face diver. Come see what you have been missing in the market!
Time
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
1:00 PM

Some people give oxygen little thought. But if you are using oxygen or enriched air like Nitrox in your facility, then you must be trained according to the Federal requirements to handle, manage and clean to specific O2 standards.  Do you know what they are?  The PSI-PCI Oxygen Cylinder Cleaning Technician (OCCT) course will provide you with the information you need to answer YES to that question.  “Dive industry standards” do not exist!  The PSI-PCI course covers gas industry standards, Federal requirements, real world cleaning, inspection and use techniques that will keep you and your customers safe and compliant when using O2.  With the knowledge you gain in this PSI-PCI course you will be confident and able to meet Federal requirements in your use, cleaning and inspections of cylinders in enriched air or O2 service. NOTE: This course MUST be registered for at the link below. Pricing and pre-requisites to be set by the vendor. Selecting this listing only to allows this workshop to show on your overall AAUS agenda for the week but does not complete registration.  Register at: http://www.psicylinders.com/regional-training Course Cost - $175 upon registration Pre-requisite:  Current PSI-PCI Trained Inspector
Time
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
1:00 PM

**Duplicate offering.  This is a half day workshop only.**This workshop will provide a hands-on experience regarding the initial investigation of a scuba diving fatality.   Participants will learn the tools and techniques involved with the initial investigation of a scuba accident.  Hands-on practice with a simulated diving accident scenario will be provided. The procedures used for documentation, securing evidence, and recovering the victim will be discussed and employed during the mock investigation. Participants must provide a LOR. Participants will need to bring a mask, fins, and exposure suit. All other dive equipment will be provided. (Please request BCD size in advance.)  Transportation Provided
Time
1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
1:00 PM

The PSI-PCI Valve Repair Technician (VRT) course is a top notch overview of the basics of valve maintenance and repair.  The valve is often times the most neglected part of the dive equipment. But it has a very important job: getting the air from the cylinder to the user!  Wouldn’t you want your valves to be in the best possible condition?  This is a stand alone course to meet Federal requirements for formal, function specific training.  The PSI-PCI VRT course expands on the informational overview of the VCI course and will provide you with the detailed information you need to disassemble, inspect, clean, reassemble and test the valve.NOTE: This course MUST be registered for at the link below. Pricing and pre-requisites to be set by the vendor. Selecting this listing only to allows this workshop to show on your overall AAUS agenda for the week but does not complete registration.  Register at:  http://www.psicylinders.com/regional-training Course Cost - $175
Time
3:30 PM - 5:30 PM
3:30 PM

The PSI-PCI Update is available to meet the Federal recurrent training requirements for PSI-PCI Inspectors.  If you are within your 3 year recurrent training window, this is the training you need to remain complaint.  We create this course annually to provide our inspectors with the most up to date information pertinent to your inspection training.  Keep your training up to current status by attending the PSI-PCI Update at DEMA.  You can continue to be a very important part of the Cylinder Safety Solution! NOTE: This course MUST be registered for at the link below. Pricing and pre-requisites to be set by the vendor. Selecting this listing only to allows this workshop to show on your overall AAUS agenda for the week but does not complete registration.  Click here to register:  http://www.psicylinders.com/regional-training Course Cost - $115 to be paid at registration
Time
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
6:00 PM

Thursday, 27 April 2023

Description
Annual Business and National DSO meeting for AAUS.  *Lunch Provided
Time
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
9:00 AM

Annual Business and DSO meeting for AAUS. Virtual Attendance Only. Please note that all times are in CENTRAL time zone.
Time
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
9:00 AM

Annual fundraising event for the AAUS Foundation Scholarship program where we will auction and raffle off a variety of donated items and trips. Held at Apple Annie's. Come join us for a Mardi Gras good time! Full and DSO only registrations include a ticket to this event. Workshop only, day pass and student registrants must purchase this ticket using the Companion option to attend this event.
Time
6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
6:00 PM

Annual fundraising event for the AAUS Foundation Scholarship program where we will auction and raffle off a variety of donated items and trips. Held at Apple Annie's.  Entrance to this event is included for Full and DSO only registrations. Workshop only, day pass and student registrants must purchase this ticket to attend this event. Any guest or companion must also purchase a ticket to attend.
Time
6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
6:00 PM

Friday, 28 April 2023

Description
Join us as we hear about cutting edge research as well as training techniques in scientific diving.  You must be a full,  student or day-pass registrant to attend the science symposium.  *Lunch Provided
Time
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
8:30 AM

Join us waterfront in Pensacola as we honor this year's award winners and hear from our keynote speaker!
Time
6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
6:00 PM

Join us waterfront in Pensacola as we honor this year's award winners and hear from our keynote speaker!
Time
6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
6:00 PM

Saturday, 29 April 2023

Description
Join us as we hear about cutting edge research as well as training techniques in scientific diving.  You must be a full,  student or day-pass registrant to attend the science symposium.  *Lunch Provided
Time
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
8:30 AM

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