The 2016 International Hydrographic Management and Engineering Program (IHMEP) is underway at the Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Professional Development Center in Gulfport.

The seven participants include naval officers from Vietnam, Pakistan and Taiwan, as well as U.S. Navy students from the Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO) and Fleet Survey Team. The six-month program will run through August.

"For nearly 60 years, hydrographic training has expanded and strengthened our network of international partners," said Rear Adm. Tim Gallaudet, Commander, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command. "Through IHMEP, students share information and develop practical experience and understanding that enhances each country's capabilities and supports our shared interests."

Building partnerships is one of four lines of effort outlined in Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson's strategic guidance, A Design for Maintaining Maritime Superiority, released Jan. 5.

Since 1957, 618 students from 71 countries have graduated from IHMEP and its forerunners. Alumni include the current president of the International Hydrographic Organization, the director of the International Hydrographic Board and directors of numerous hydrographic offices around the world.

Hydrography is the study, description or mapping of oceans, lakes and rivers, especially in reference to navigation. IHMEP provides practical training in hydrographic survey management and engineering taught in accordance with International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) Standards of Competency for Hydrographic Surveyors for Category "B" certification.

Students receive practical training in mathematics, computer science, the physical sciences, tides, marine geodesy, the Global Positioning System, hydrography, oceanography, meteorology, nautical cartography, Law of the Sea as well as single-beam, multi-beam and side scan sonar. At the end of the course, they apply their new skills during a hands-on hydrographic survey.

The Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Professional Development Center in Gulfport operates IHMEP with guest instructors from the Naval Oceanographic Office, Fleet Survey Team, the University of Southern Mississippi and vendors. Additional assistance comes from community sponsors who help international students acclimate to the United States.

Hydrography has been taught at the Naval Oceanographic Office since World War II. In 1957, a 48-week course, the Allied Training Program for Officers and Civilians for Hydrographic Engineering and Marine Environment, was developed for international students. IHMEP was created in 1986 due to a need for short-term hydrographic training.

For more news from Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command, visit www.navy.mil/.