The Society of AccreditedMarine Surveyors is an organization of professional marine surveyors who have come together to promote the good image and general well being of their chosen profession. Accredited Marine Surveyor members are surveyors who have accumulated time in the profession, and have proven the technical skills necessary for designation as AMS. There is, through the Surveyor Associate program, the opportunity for less experienced members to participate in SAMS and hone their skills under the tutelage of Accredited Marine Surveyors in their local area. Affiliate members, who benefit from the association with the Society's members, are professionals, corporations, and organizations active in the marine field.
History and Philosophy
The Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors has its roots in the International Maritime Technical Institute Conference held in Brunswick, Maine during the latter part of 1986. Most of the participants expressed a desire to belong to a professional society of marine surveyors who would have a different purpose and outlook than found in the existing professional organizations of the day. Among the participants were Jim Robbins of C.A. Hansen Corporation and Fred Lowe, formerly Instructor of Marine Surveying at the Chapman School of Seamanship, Stuart, Florida. Jim Robbins and Fred Lowe founded the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors during the early part of 1987 and enlisted Michael Strocchi of Strocchi & Co. to join them on the original Board of Directors. A carefully chosen cadre of fifty charter members was solicited to be the foundation of the organization. Over the next 18 months and three national meetings, the organization of SAMS was put into place. The Society headquarters was moved to Jacksonville, Florida, where it continues to provide services to its members. Accredited Marine Surveyors are expected to follow a course of continuing education to maintain their accreditation. Members are guided by a code of ethics and are encouraged to participate in other organizations relative to the marine field but not required to have insurance to protect their clients
