Honoring the Pioneers and Innovation Behind the Deepwater Diving Monument

The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum (SBMM) proudly presents the next installment of its Maritime Distinguished Speaker Series: “The Deepwater Diving Monument: How Santa Barbara Became the Birthplace of Deepwater Diving Technology.” This special event, featuring Theodore K. Roche IV, senior advisor and former CEO of Aqueos Corporation, will take place on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at 7:00 p.m., with an exclusive pre-lecture members-only reception from 6:15 p.m. to 6:45 p.m.

Admission is free for SBMM Navigators Circle members, $10 for other members, and $20 for the general public. Tickets can be purchased at sbmm.org or by calling (805) 456-8750.

This engaging presentation will explore Santa Barbara’s pivotal role in the evolution of commercial diving, detailing how local innovation and leadership helped transform the city into a global center for deepwater diving technology. Roche will also discuss the creation and recent unveiling of Santa Barbara’s newest public art installation, the Deepwater Diving Monument—a striking 8-foot bronze sculpture located at the entrance to the harbor. The monument honors the courageous pioneers of commercial diving and celebrates the groundbreaking advancements developed right here on the Central Coast.

“The Deepwater Diving Monument is more than just a sculpture—it’s a symbol of courage, ingenuity, and the relentless pursuit of exploration,” said SBMM Executive Director Greg Gorga. “Santa Barbara’s diving community has had a profound impact on underwater technology, and this presentation will bring that incredible history to life.”

About the Speaker: Theodore K. Roche IV

Ted Roche brings more than 40 years of experience in the marine construction and commercial diving industry. He is the founder and former CEO of Aqueos Corporation (formerly Divecon Services), a premier subsea contractor originally established in Santa Barbara. Under his leadership, Aqueos grew into a leading provider of commercial diving, ROV, and vessel contracting services, with operations across the West Coast, Gulf of Mexico, and select international markets.

Following Aqueos’ acquisition by Michels Corporation in 2022, Roche continued to lead the company as CEO until July 2024. He now serves as senior advisor and board member, offering strategic guidance and maintaining a strong commitment to safety and operational excellence for a company that now employs more than 250 professionals.

Prior to founding Aqueos, Roche held executive roles with Stolt Comex Seaway and Martech USA and gained firsthand experience working in challenging offshore environments, including the North Sea, Alaska, and the South China Sea. He holds a degree in marine diving technology and currently serves as chairman of the Advisory Board for Santa Barbara City College’s Marine Diving Technology Program.

“Santa Barbara’s impact on deepwater diving extends far beyond our harbor—this city’s innovations have influenced commercial diving and ocean exploration worldwide,” said Leslie Leaney, SBMM’s maritime historian and co-founder of the Historical Diving Society USA. “This event will be an incredible opportunity to hear firsthand from one of the industry’s most respected leaders about the legacy and future of deepwater diving.”

Join SBMM for an evening of storytelling, innovation, and tribute to the divers, engineers, and visionaries who shaped the deepwater diving industry—right here in Santa Barbara.

Event Details

• What: “The Deepwater Diving Monument: How Santa Barbara Became the Birthplace of Deepwater Diving Technology” with special guest speaker Theodore K. Roche IV
• When: Thursday, May 15, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.
• Where: Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, 113 Harbor Way, Suite 190, Santa Barbara, CA
• Admission: Free for SBMM Navigators Circle members; $10 for other members; $20 for the general public. Tickets: sbmm.org or call (805) 456-8750

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to hear from industry leaders, see history come to life, and be part of the legacy of Santa Barbara’s commercial diving industry.

The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For more information about visiting the museum, please visit sbmm.org or call (805) 962-8404.

Most individuals attending the lecture will be able to find seats on the main floor. When overflow seating becomes necessary due to larger than normal attendance, guests are invited to view the lecture from the museum’s Munger Theater. All lecture seating is first come, first served. SBMM members are invited to enjoy a pre-lecture reception from 6:15 p.m. to 6:45 p.m., which provides early access to the event. Learn more about becoming a member.

The Maritime Distinguished Speaker Series is sponsored by Marie L Morrisroe.

About the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum: The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum connects the rich maritime heritage of the California coast to contemporary issues in ocean conservation, ensuring the preservation and appreciation of the Santa Barbara Channel region for future generations.