INSTRUCTORS

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.

Bruce Hager, a seasoned instructor and March 1983 alumnus of The Ocean Corporation, epitomizes dedication and expertise in commercial diving and NDT. Since joining the faculty in 2007, Bruce has leveraged his extensive certifications and experience—from thrilling treasure dives in the Gulf of Mexico to high-stakes HAZMAT operations—to educate and inspire the next generation of divers. With a teaching philosophy that balances direct instruction on safety with making learning enjoyable, Bruce aims to ensure every student not only graduates but thrives in their chosen field. Passionate about incorporating new technologies like ROVs and drones into his curriculum, Bruce is committed to preparing his students for the evolving challenges of the industry, all while fostering a classroom environment that is both positive and engaging.

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 twelve years of extensive experience in deep air, mixed gas diving, salvage, underwater construction, and NDT inspection, 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. 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.

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.