Ike L. Coffman

Ike Coffman's career began in 1973 when he joined the ranks of the US Navy. During his tenure, Ike's dedication and skill led him to achieve the rank of Petty Officer Second Class, Interior Communications Electrician. He served as an Electrical Operator and Nuclear Plant Techncian on the USS Trepang, SSN 674, where he honed his technical expertise. 

In pursuit of higher education, Ike embarked on an academic journey that would further shape his career. In 1982, he successfully earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics from the University of Central Arkansas. Never one to rest, Ike went on to complete a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from the University of Houston in 2002. 

In January of 1981, Ike married his beloved wife Rosemary, and together they have enjoyed a marriage of over 42 years, and are proud parents to two children and grandparents to two grandchildren. 

Throughout his career, Ike has worked with various renowned companies, contributing his expertise to each organization he served. His professional journey includes notable stints with Halliburton, Alvin Community College, Houston ISD, and San Jacinto College, where he remains currently.

In 2001, Ike's passion for education and robotics brought him to MATE (Marine Advanced Technical Education). He made a significant impact as the MATE Texas Regional Coordinator for the competition until 2019. Despite stepping down from the coordinator role, Ike continues to be an invaluable advisor, mentoring and supporting aspiring minds in the world of underwater robotics. 

Ike joined the Marine Technology Society (MTS) in 2002. His dedication led him to be appointed Treasurer of the Houston Section in 2019, a position he continues to hold with pride. Through his vast experience and passion for education, he endeavors to inspire and empower future generations to reach their fullest potential. 

Indicate one or two key goals that you would hope to accomplish in this position over the next 3 years:
A key goal that I would hope to accomplish is to just be present at meetings and conferences and ensure our presence is known and felt, and that we are actively working to promote the interests of the offshore industry. 

In addition, I would like to understand any technical issues and work to promote collaborative efforts to solve problems. 

Discuss the qualities and experience you posses that make you a strong candidate for the position for which you are running:
Coming from a technical background, I can both understand and promote the technological development of the marine industry. I think there is a misunderstanding about the work that is done in the industry, a general public perception that the industry is labor intensive and low tech. There needs to be a better public understanding, and that starts with being able to communicate with both the public and industry partners about the actual work environment and the opportunities that exist. The industry requires extensive technical skills, and the financial compensation for workers in the industry reflects that fact. 

Coming from an educational background, I can promote the acquisition and development of the skills the industry so desperately needs. The need for development of technical skills requires a solid foundation of general knowledge, particularly in math and science, but that need also includes reading comprehension and writing proficiency. These skills, which also include an emphasis on work ethic and perseverance, must be acknowledged and advanced starting as early as middle school. In partnership with MATE, we can reach students in those early grades and promote both the hard and the soft skills necessary for success.