The 2016 International Hydrographic Management and Engineering Program (IHMEP) graduated seven students at a ceremony held at the Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Professional Development Center, Aug. 17.

The graduates included naval officers from Vietnam, Pakistan and Taiwan, as well as U.S. Navy students from the Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO) and Fleet Survey Team. In addition to providing hydrographic training, the six-month program helps build strategic partnerships. Students share information and develop practical experience and understanding that enhances each country's capabilities and supports 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."

"The importance of our profession cannot be understated," Capt. Rich Delgado, chief of staff for commander, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command, told the class. "Whether conducting a full navigation survey to update a harbor chart or checking sounding and navigation aids after the passage of a hurricane or typhoon, your skills in collecting, processing and managing maritime safety information that you developed in this course will serve all nations. The international community is counting on us."

For nearly 60 years, hydrographic training has expanded and strengthened a network of international partners. Since the first course started in 1957, 624 students from 72 countries have graduated from IHMEP and its forerunning programs dating to World War II. Alumni include the presidents and directors 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, GPS, 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 applications of hydrography are expanding beyond nautical charting," Delgado said. "Hydrography provides essential data for effective environmental protection, understanding of climate change and earth science."

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