A Conversation with Tom Carroll from the Naval Undersea Warfare Center – Newport (NUWC)
UTIC Intersections–Conversations with Ocean and Undersea Tech Leaders: Discussions with influential leaders in the undersea technology community, soliciting their technical insights and observations.
Tom Carroll is the Navy program manager for the Undersea Technology OTA (Other Transaction Agreement) for undersea and maritime innovation technology, which executes prototype awards to UTIC members to provide potential solutions to Navy undersea tech challenges. He has had a long-standing career as a technical expert and leader in undersea systems for the Navy. From his early days as an analyst, to his time in DC in the DoD’s Joint Cross Service Group, to his more recent work as a NUWC Deputy Department head and Deputy T&E Director, Tom has made significant contributions to the development of complex undersea technical systems.
We asked Tom for his thoughts on some important undersea technology questions:
What current ocean and undersea tech innovations could be game changers in the coming months and years?
There are definitely a few that have my attention. AI-powered autonomous systems, quantum sensing, and bio-inspired robotics are poised to revolutionize ocean technology. Imagine a future of robotic fish conducting covert surveillance, mimicking marine life with unparalleled stealth and agility, or bio-inspired UUVs navigating complex underwater environments with ease. These cutting-edge technologies promise to revolutionize our ability to explore, understand, and operate within the ocean depths.
Equally important is the ongoing innovation in underwater networking and communications. Traditional acoustic methods are being surpassed by groundbreaking solutions like optical communication and even bio-inspired networks that harness the power of marine life. This shift towards robust, secure, and high-bandwidth communication is crucial for enabling real-time data sharing and coordinated control of underwater assets, paving the way for a future of networked undersea operations. Coupled with the development of advanced materials boasting exceptional strength, corrosion resistance, and even self-healing properties, the future of ocean technology is packed with potential.
What do you see as interesting and innovative approaches for improving ocean and undersea workforce skills in the market today?
Meeting the growing demand for a skilled ocean and undersea workforce requires a multi-pronged approach. Engaging K-12 programs that spark early interest in ocean science and technology are crucial. The ocean’s vast potential can only be unlocked with a skilled and passionate workforce. To meet the surging demand in the ocean and undersea technology sector, we must invest in innovative workforce development initiatives that inspire and empower individuals. At the same time, empowering the current workforce requires embracing new training approaches to cultivate relevant skills and adaptability.
Building strong partnerships between government, industry leaders and academic institutions is crucial for aligning curriculum with industry needs, providing valuable hands-on experiences, and facilitating knowledge transfer between seasoned professionals and the next generation of ocean explorers. By leveraging the talents of our veterans and breaking down complex skills into smaller, industry-recognized credentials, we can create a robust pipeline of talent ready to tackle the challenges and opportunities ahead.
What is at the heart of successful public/private partnerships in ocean and undersea technology innovation?
Successful public-private partnerships (PPPs) thrive on a shared vision, clear objectives, and a collaborative approach. Regular, transparent communication is vital to foster trust and ensure all partners are informed about progress, challenges, and any necessary adjustments to the project plan. Full transparency, open communication, and a willingness to adapt/innovate are also vital for navigating the complexities of the ocean environment. Establishing a culture that embraces iterative development, calculated risk-taking, and views setbacks as learning opportunities is crucial.
Ultimately, the most fruitful PPPs foster long-term relationships, share knowledge gained with the wider community, and cultivate an environment of trust and mutual respect, leading to groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in our understanding of the entire ocean. Academic institutions often bring scientific expertise and research capabilities, while private companies contribute industry experience, market awareness, and access to capital. By sharing resources, such as funding, facilities, and data, PPPs can accelerate innovation and reduce financial burdens. The best partnerships continue working together even after a project is finished. This builds trust and leads to even more exciting discoveries in the future. Communication and collaboration lead to innovation!
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