John Wood
President
John Wood has been the influential President and Principal Owner of The Ocean Corporation since 1989, driving the institution toward excellence in vocational education for over three decades. With a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston and further training from Rice University’s Management Program, John has consistently demonstrated a profound commitment to education. His dedication was recognized in 2019 with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Career Colleges and Schools of Texas (CCST). John has held significant roles including past board member and chair of CCST and the Texas Guaranteed Student Loan Corporation’s Lender/School Advisory Board. He is also involved with the Texas Association of Business and the International Marine Contractors Association, emphasizing his commitment to industry standards in diving education. As former President of the Association of Commercial Diving Educators, John has significantly influenced commercial diving education. His leadership philosophy aligns closely with The Ocean Corporation’s mission, emphasizing education that empowers student success, a principle reflected in his personal and professional life.
John Wood
President
John Wood has been the influential President and Principal Owner of The Ocean Corporation since 1989, driving the institution toward excellence in vocational education for over three decades. With a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston and further training from Rice University’s Management Program, John has consistently demonstrated a profound commitment to education. His dedication was recognized in 2019 with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Career Colleges and Schools of Texas (CCST). John has held significant roles including past board member and chair of CCST and the Texas Guaranteed Student Loan Corporation’s Lender/School Advisory Board. He is also involved with the Texas Association of Business and the International Marine Contractors Association, emphasizing his commitment to industry standards in diving education. As former President of the Association of Commercial Diving Educators, John has significantly influenced commercial diving education. His leadership philosophy aligns closely with The Ocean Corporation’s mission, emphasizing education that empowers student success, a principle reflected in his personal and professional life.
Devon Crosby
Devon Crosby’s meteoric rise from a skilled diver to a senior project manager at Oceaneering International Inc., and now an inspiring instructor at The Ocean Corporation, epitomizes exceptional career growth and a deep commitment to safety and professionalism. His journey, marked by overseeing high-stakes offshore projects with a keen focus on safety and operational excellence, highlights his adeptness in navigating the complex challenges of the commercial diving industry. Transitioning into education, Devon leverages his rich industry experience to provide hands-on learning and real-world insights, preparing students for success in a rapidly evolving field. His story is a testament to the transformative power of dedication, mentorship, and the continuous pursuit of knowledge, making him a pivotal figure in shaping the future professionals of the commercial diving and welding industry.
John Godfrey
John Godfrey’s career, which began with an ad in a Dive magazine leading to enrollment at The Ocean Corporation, is marked by diverse and profound experiences ranging from offshore salvage operations to preparing astronauts at NASA’s Neutral Buoyancy Lab. Proud of his entire career, John transitioned to teaching to share his vast knowledge and stay closer to family. His teaching philosophy is deeply personal and interactive, aiming to engage students at an individual level and ensure they retain and comprehend the lessons thoroughly. Outside of teaching, his hobbies like model building and woodworking reflect the patience and precision he imparts to his students. John Godfrey’s journey from deep-sea diving to empowering future divers at The Ocean Corporation showcases his passion for the field and dedication to educating the next generation.
Kenneth Hill
Kenneth Hill is a seasoned instructor at The Ocean Corporation, where he leverages a diverse professional background spanning from drafting and design to quality control and NDT inspection. His extensive experience includes roles as a Quality Control Lead at Piping Technology & Products, managing QC and HSE at JT Oilfield Manufacturing, and estimating at Cody Builders Supply. Kenneth transitioned to teaching in 2002, driven by a desire to give back to the educational community that launched his career. In the classroom, he adopts a laid-back yet engaging approach, focusing on real-world applications and interactive learning. Outside of teaching, Kenneth enjoys traveling and golf, continually engaging in professional development to stay abreast of industry advancements. His comprehensive expertise and dedication to education make him a pivotal figure in nurturing the next generation of NDT professionals.
Richard Johnston
Richard Johnston’s distinguished career in commercial diving is marked by his legacy as a third-generation diver and his contributions across various capacities in the industry. His transition from an acclaimed combat photographer to a notable figure in commercial diving saw him work with leading companies such as McDermott, Global Divers, and Cal Dive, undertaking critical projects like pipeline installations and subsea manifold installations. After a career-altering injury, Richard shifted his focus towards education, becoming an esteemed instructor at The Ocean Corporation, where he shares his extensive knowledge and experience. Beyond teaching, Richard has made significant contributions through his publications in ADCI’s Underwater Magazine and presentations at Underwater Intervention, emphasizing his commitment to advancing diving safety and efficiency. His development of innovative diving gear and rescue techniques highlights his dedication to improving the industry. Richard Johnston’s enduring influence is felt not only through his direct contributions to commercial diving but also in his role as a mentor and innovator, inspiring future generations to excel in this challenging field.
Omar Latief
NOTE: Missing Bio
Chloe Streeter
Chloe Streeter is a distinguished instructor at The Ocean Corporation, where she leverages over 16 years of commercial diving experience to shape the futures of new divers. Starting her career at the Houston Aquarium in 2008, Chloe quickly progressed to significant roles, including overseeing safety and training as a Dive Supervisor at NASA’s Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory. She has also contributed internationally, notably in South Africa, with the Great White Project. A dedicated educator, Chloe graduated top of her class from The Ocean Corporation in 2012 and has since enhanced her academic credentials with a Bachelor’s in Biology and an Associate’s in Life Science. In the classroom, Chloe is known for her engaging teaching methods that include innovative techniques to accommodate various learning styles, underpinned by a philosophy centered on safety and practical application. Her approach is greatly influenced by her personal interests in scuba diving, art, and fitness, making her an inspiring mentor and a pivotal figure in both educational and diving communities.
Gary Tiedt
Gary Tiedt is a seasoned instructor at The Ocean Corporation, where he has been shaping the futures of diving and NDT professionals since 2002. As an alumnus from the class of 1993, Gary brings over twenty years of extensive experience in deep air, mixed gas diving, salvage, underwater construction, NDT inspection, and education having worked with notable employers including Subsea International and the U.S. Army. Known for his practical and engaging teaching style, Gary is committed to providing education that emphasizes safety, hands-on skills, and critical thinking. He holds a “Certified Higher Education Professional Excellence in Training” designation from NASASPS, underscoring his dedication to high-quality training. Gary’s approach to teaching is greatly enhanced by his continuous professional development, ensuring that his curriculum remains relevant to the ever-evolving demands of the diving industry. His role at The Ocean Corporation extends beyond instruction, as he serves as a mentor and a key advocate for industry standards and professional growth.
George White
George White, a seasoned Nondestructive Testing (NDT) expert with over 15 years of industry experience, now serves as an esteemed instructor at The Ocean Corporation. Beginning his career in the dynamic oil and gas sector, George was deeply influenced by his early fascination with the technological aspects of NDT and his passion for diving. His extensive background includes working as a third-party inspector with major companies like Noble Energy and McDermott International, where he performed critical inspections and ensured the quality of equipment for offshore drilling operations. Transitioning into education was driven by his desire to give back to the community and continually sharpen his skills. In the classroom, George emphasizes thorough understanding and practical application of NDT principles, preparing students for future challenges with the latest technological advancements like PAUT and UT shear wave. His personal interests in travel, fitness, and self-improvement enrich his teaching, bringing a balanced and enthusiastic approach to educating the next generation of NDT professionals.
Justin Helm
NOTE: Missing Bio
Isaac Jimenez
With an extensive history and love of diving, Isaac has been an SSI-certified air and nitrox diver since 2010. In 2013, taking his passion for diving professional, Isaac took the Ultimate Diver Training program at The Ocean Corporation. With fluency in English and Spanish, Isaac started his diving career at Ranger Offshore, working on a multitude of construction, inspection, and salvage projects in the inland and offshore sectors; this allowed him to explore the world and diverse cultures. Later, he started his own inland dive enterprise specializing in golf course diving and golf ball retrieval. Ultimately, joining The Ocean Corp team in April of 2022 so he can pass on his knowledge to the next generation of commercial divers.
Josh Swain
Joshua Swain, a Certified Welding Inspector and NDT instructor at The Ocean Corporation in Houston, brings 26 years of quality assurance and weld inspection experience to the classroom. He earned his CWI through the American Welding Society in 2007 and holds Level II certifications in magnetic testing, penetrant testing, radiographic testing, and ultrasonic testing, along with experience in eddy current and automated ultrasonic inspection. Josh’s career includes serving as lead inspector and training coordinator at Tenaris Coiled Tubing, Dril-Quip, and Celeros Flow Technologies, and as resident inspector on major Gulf Coast deepwater projects for Chevron, Shell, Anadarko, and Oceaneering. He built quality assurance databooks for Jack St. Malo, Lucius, Medusa, Perdido, Bigfoot, and Thunderhorse—some of the industry’s most scrutinized offshore developments—coordinating witness inspection points, vendor surveillance, and non-conformance report resolution for subsea pipeline end manifolds, tendon buoyancy modules, and modular drilling rig components. His teaching philosophy emphasizes hands-on engagement, group participation, and compassion for individual learning styles. Josh prepares students for an AI-transformed industry by building foundational competence in weld metallurgy, code requirements, and inspection procedures while encouraging adaptability to emerging technologies and continuous professional development throughout their careers.
Jose Vindeola
Jose Santos Vindeola II, a commercial diving instructor at The Ocean Corporation in Houston, brings 41 years of Gulf Coast offshore experience to the classroom. His career began with the U.S. Navy as a Search and Rescue Swimmer and Navy diver candidate before earning his commercial diving certificate from Divers Institute of Technology in 1984. He progressed from tender to saturation diving supervisor at Martech, Global Divers, and Acadiana Divers, then spent twelve years at Cal Dive International managing projects for Apache, Chevron, ExxonMobil, BP, and Shell. Jose’s most notable achievement was project managing a 26-inch onto 36-inch hot tap for Kinder Morgan at 1,400 psi—one of the largest pipeline connections executed in the Gulf of Mexico—delivering three times the bid price while returning $300,000 to the client. He later held business development and operations management roles at Neptune Marine Services, Triton Diving, Global Diving and Salvage, Javeler Marine, and Leviathan Offshore. His teaching philosophy is “realistic as it can get,” using 3D drawings to help students visualize complex underwater structures and emphasizing the business literacy required for long-term careers beyond the dive helmet. Jose prepares students not just to dive safely, but to become the project managers and supervisors who run Gulf Coast offshore operations.
Casey Stinson
NOTE: Missing Bio
Devon Crosby’s meteoric rise from a skilled diver to a senior project manager at Oceaneering International Inc., and now an inspiring instructor at The Ocean Corporation, epitomizes exceptional career growth and a deep commitment to safety and professionalism. His journey, marked by overseeing high-stakes offshore projects with a keen focus on safety and operational excellence, highlights his adeptness in navigating the complex challenges of the commercial diving industry. Transitioning into education, Devon leverages his rich industry experience to provide hands-on learning and real-world insights, preparing students for success in a rapidly evolving field. His story is a testament to the transformative power of dedication, mentorship, and the continuous pursuit of knowledge, making him a pivotal figure in shaping the future professionals of the commercial diving and welding industry.
John Godfrey’s career, which began with an ad in a Dive magazine leading to enrollment at The Ocean Corporation, is marked by diverse and profound experiences ranging from offshore salvage operations to preparing astronauts at NASA’s Neutral Buoyancy Lab. Proud of his entire career, John transitioned to teaching to share his vast knowledge and stay closer to family. His teaching philosophy is deeply personal and interactive, aiming to engage students at an individual level and ensure they retain and comprehend the lessons thoroughly. Outside of teaching, his hobbies like model building and woodworking reflect the patience and precision he imparts to his students. John Godfrey’s journey from deep-sea diving to empowering future divers at The Ocean Corporation showcases his passion for the field and dedication to educating the next generation.
Kenneth Hill is a seasoned instructor at The Ocean Corporation, where he leverages a diverse professional background spanning from drafting and design to quality control and NDT inspection. His extensive experience includes roles as a Quality Control Lead at Piping Technology & Products, managing QC and HSE at JT Oilfield Manufacturing, and estimating at Cody Builders Supply. Kenneth transitioned to teaching in 2002, driven by a desire to give back to the educational community that launched his career. In the classroom, he adopts a laid-back yet engaging approach, focusing on real-world applications and interactive learning. Outside of teaching, Kenneth enjoys traveling and golf, continually engaging in professional development to stay abreast of industry advancements. His comprehensive expertise and dedication to education make him a pivotal figure in nurturing the next generation of NDT professionals.
Richard Johnston’s distinguished career in commercial diving is marked by his legacy as a third-generation diver and his contributions across various capacities in the industry. His transition from an acclaimed combat photographer to a notable figure in commercial diving saw him work with leading companies such as McDermott, Global Divers, and Cal Dive, undertaking critical projects like pipeline installations and subsea manifold installations. After a career-altering injury, Richard shifted his focus towards education, becoming an esteemed instructor at The Ocean Corporation, where he shares his extensive knowledge and experience. Beyond teaching, Richard has made significant contributions through his publications in ADCI’s Underwater Magazine and presentations at Underwater Intervention, emphasizing his commitment to advancing diving safety and efficiency. His development of innovative diving gear and rescue techniques highlights his dedication to improving the industry. Richard Johnston’s enduring influence is felt not only through his direct contributions to commercial diving but also in his role as a mentor and innovator, inspiring future generations to excel in this challenging field.
NOTE: Missing Bio
Chloe Streeter is a distinguished instructor at The Ocean Corporation, where she leverages over 16 years of commercial diving experience to shape the futures of new divers. Starting her career at the Houston Aquarium in 2008, Chloe quickly progressed to significant roles, including overseeing safety and training as a Dive Supervisor at NASA’s Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory. She has also contributed internationally, notably in South Africa, with the Great White Project. A dedicated educator, Chloe graduated top of her class from The Ocean Corporation in 2012 and has since enhanced her academic credentials with a Bachelor’s in Biology and an Associate’s in Life Science. In the classroom, Chloe is known for her engaging teaching methods that include innovative techniques to accommodate various learning styles, underpinned by a philosophy centered on safety and practical application. Her approach is greatly influenced by her personal interests in scuba diving, art, and fitness, making her an inspiring mentor and a pivotal figure in both educational and diving communities.
Gary Tiedt is a seasoned instructor at The Ocean Corporation, where he has been shaping the futures of diving and NDT professionals since 2002. As an alumnus from the class of 1993, Gary brings over twenty years of extensive experience in deep air, mixed gas diving, salvage, underwater construction, NDT inspection, and education having worked with notable employers including Subsea International and the U.S. Army. Known for his practical and engaging teaching style, Gary is committed to providing education that emphasizes safety, hands-on skills, and critical thinking. He holds a “Certified Higher Education Professional Excellence in Training” designation from NASASPS, underscoring his dedication to high-quality training. Gary’s approach to teaching is greatly enhanced by his continuous professional development, ensuring that his curriculum remains relevant to the ever-evolving demands of the diving industry. His role at The Ocean Corporation extends beyond instruction, as he serves as a mentor and a key advocate for industry standards and professional growth.
George White, a seasoned Nondestructive Testing (NDT) expert with over 15 years of industry experience, now serves as an esteemed instructor at The Ocean Corporation. Beginning his career in the dynamic oil and gas sector, George was deeply influenced by his early fascination with the technological aspects of NDT and his passion for diving. His extensive background includes working as a third-party inspector with major companies like Noble Energy and McDermott International, where he performed critical inspections and ensured the quality of equipment for offshore drilling operations. Transitioning into education was driven by his desire to give back to the community and continually sharpen his skills. In the classroom, George emphasizes thorough understanding and practical application of NDT principles, preparing students for future challenges with the latest technological advancements like PAUT and UT shear wave. His personal interests in travel, fitness, and self-improvement enrich his teaching, bringing a balanced and enthusiastic approach to educating the next generation of NDT professionals.
NOTE: Missing Bio
With an extensive history and love of diving, Isaac has been an SSI-certified air and nitrox diver since 2010. In 2013, taking his passion for diving professional, Isaac took the Ultimate Diver Training program at The Ocean Corporation. With fluency in English and Spanish, Isaac started his diving career at Ranger Offshore, working on a multitude of construction, inspection, and salvage projects in the inland and offshore sectors; this allowed him to explore the world and diverse cultures. Later, he started his own inland dive enterprise specializing in golf course diving and golf ball retrieval. Ultimately, joining The Ocean Corp team in April of 2022 so he can pass on his knowledge to the next generation of commercial divers.
Joshua Swain, a Certified Welding Inspector and NDT instructor at The Ocean Corporation in Houston, brings 26 years of quality assurance and weld inspection experience to the classroom. He earned his CWI through the American Welding Society in 2007 and holds Level II certifications in magnetic testing, penetrant testing, radiographic testing, and ultrasonic testing, along with experience in eddy current and automated ultrasonic inspection. Josh’s career includes serving as lead inspector and training coordinator at Tenaris Coiled Tubing, Dril-Quip, and Celeros Flow Technologies, and as resident inspector on major Gulf Coast deepwater projects for Chevron, Shell, Anadarko, and Oceaneering. He built quality assurance databooks for Jack St. Malo, Lucius, Medusa, Perdido, Bigfoot, and Thunderhorse—some of the industry’s most scrutinized offshore developments—coordinating witness inspection points, vendor surveillance, and non-conformance report resolution for subsea pipeline end manifolds, tendon buoyancy modules, and modular drilling rig components. His teaching philosophy emphasizes hands-on engagement, group participation, and compassion for individual learning styles. Josh prepares students for an AI-transformed industry by building foundational competence in weld metallurgy, code requirements, and inspection procedures while encouraging adaptability to emerging technologies and continuous professional development throughout their careers.
Jose Santos Vindeola II, a commercial diving instructor at The Ocean Corporation in Houston, brings 41 years of Gulf Coast offshore experience to the classroom. His career began with the U.S. Navy as a Search and Rescue Swimmer and Navy diver candidate before earning his commercial diving certificate from Divers Institute of Technology in 1984. He progressed from tender to saturation diving supervisor at Martech, Global Divers, and Acadiana Divers, then spent twelve years at Cal Dive International managing projects for Apache, Chevron, ExxonMobil, BP, and Shell. Jose’s most notable achievement was project managing a 26-inch onto 36-inch hot tap for Kinder Morgan at 1,400 psi—one of the largest pipeline connections executed in the Gulf of Mexico—delivering three times the bid price while returning $300,000 to the client. He later held business development and operations management roles at Neptune Marine Services, Triton Diving, Global Diving and Salvage, Javeler Marine, and Leviathan Offshore. His teaching philosophy is “realistic as it can get,” using 3D drawings to help students visualize complex underwater structures and emphasizing the business literacy required for long-term careers beyond the dive helmet. Jose prepares students not just to dive safely, but to become the project managers and supervisors who run Gulf Coast offshore operations.
NOTE: Missing Bio