Oceanography can become a part of your business vernacular for a number of reasons. You may be looking at the environmental impact of your business on our waterways. You may need to test the salinity of the water to make sure that it won't corrode your property. You may have an off-shore oil rig or you may be a transport shipper.

Whatever the reason your business has with the oceanography industry, take advantage of existing resources to answer your business questions and prepare for your next project.

To make the most of existing oceanography resources:

1. Find oceanography tools and equipment for research and data collection.

2. Consider joining an industry organization or using their services to find someone to help your business.

3. Also consider subscribing to an industry publication to find out the latest information on our oceans.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Purchase oceanography tools of the trade

Buy oceanography tools such as hardware, software, sonar equipment and more.

I recommend: Purchase water research tools from Coastal. They offer both hardware and software for the oceanographist. Find analyzers, monitors and testing equipment from ids-Environment. Purchase oceanography equipment from Advanced Measurements and Controls. Purchase underwater sonar equipment from Massa.

Join an oceanography affiliation

Become a part of an oceanography affiliation or group to further your industry knowledge, pursue continuing education or to network with colleagues. You can also use them as a resource to locate a professional in the field if you need scientific expertise.

I recommend: Find out how to become involved with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. They offer career information, volunteer opportunities, grant information, contracting opportunities as well as the NOAA's Public/Private Partnership Policy. Sign up for a new membership from the American Society of Limnology & Oceanography. Become a member of The Oceanography Society. Find an additional list of oceanography organizations from Academic Info.

Stay informed through industry publications

Follow the latest research, information and news through oceanography publications. Read information from peers and the experts about the effects of global warming, the melting ice caps and a number of additional hot topics that are currently affecting us.

I recommend: Look at the peer reviewed articles found in Oceanography magazine. Inside the publication, you'll find news, information, meeting reports and book reviews. Read full color issues of Oceanus magazine. The publication looks at the research and researchers at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, their news, features, and interviews. Purchase a subscription to The Journal of Oceanography, which has been in publication since 1942. The bimonthly journal is published in English to promote international awareness of the subject. Purchase articles from Limnology and Oceanography (ISSN 0024-3590).

Keep on top of the oceanography industry

Take the time to attend an industry event or find career information for a job change or upgrade. Making contacts in the field and networking are key to a successful career.

I recommend: Register to attend the OceanTech Expo. Major oceanography suppliers might also consider investing in exhibitor space as well. Find or post marine technology job listings from the Marine Technology Reporter publication. The Marine Advanced Technology Education Center (MATE) also has job and internship listings.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  A scholarly oceanographist should consider publishing his or her findings or putting in an opinion piece in one of the oceanography publications.