SNAME announces 2014 Sperry Award winners

The following is the text of a news release from the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers (SNAME):

(ALEXANDRIA, Va.) — Three men who were instrumental in the invention, design and development of the mobile offshore semi-submersible platform are the winners of the 2014 Elmer A. Sperry Award, which recognizes distinguished engineering contribution, which, through application, proved in actual service, has advanced the art of transportation whether by land, sea or air.

Alden J. "Doc" Laborde, Bruce G. Collipp and Alan C. McClure will be honored in a ceremony at the 2015 Offshore Technology Conference in Houston on May 4. Their technological advancement in the early 1960s made it possible to conduct offshore oil and gas exploration and production in deep waters worldwide.

The Elmer A. Sperry Award commemorates the life and achievements of Elmer Ambrose Sperry, whose genius and perseverance contributed so much to so many types of transportation. The award is presented jointly by SNAME, the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, SAE International, the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics and the American Society of Civil Engineers. For more information about the Sperry Award, visit www.sperryaward.org.

SNAME offers numerous awards and medals in recognition of professional achievement. For information about SNAME awards programs, visit www.sname.org/awardscommittee/home.

SNAME is an internationally recognized nonprofit, technical, professional society of individual members serving the maritime and offshore industries and their suppliers. Founded in 1893, the society comprises over 6,000 individuals throughout the world. Membership is open to all interested individuals. For membership information, visit www.sname.org.

By Professional Mariner Staff