The owner of Wavetop Technology, Jim Bonnett, has over thirty-five years experience in the marine service field as a marine electrical and corrosion technician and marine mechanic. For over 30 years as a contractor, doing business as Mobile Systems Service and then starting in 2005 as Wavetop Technology. He has been a consultant and as lead technician done marine electrical work, electrical and corrosion inspections, surveys and marine fire investigations.
Experience has included:
Lead Technician – Mobile Systems Services / Wavetop Technology. Contractor providing marine services which include: electrical, mechanical, and corrosion systems design, installation and repair; marine generator and air conditioning installation and general marine related problem analysis and resolution. Primary client from 1984 thru 2005 was Marine Services of Fort Washington, MD. an international marine consulting firm. Services provided included design and installation of boat electrical systems and panels in accordance with ABYC and NFPA 302 standards. Preparing associated drawings and installing electronic equipment; design, installation and repair of dock power systems; conducting marine electrical and corrosion surveys.
Major projects have included:
- Analysis of corrosion damage of keel cooler installations on high-speed aluminum ferries.
- Development and implementation of procedures for survey and analysis of corrosion damage to stern-drives.
- Design and construction of test equipment for determining the presence of AC fault current on docks, status of electrical power systems and galvanic isolation of boats connected to dock power systems.
- Analysis and correction of major corrosion problems associated with previously installed impressed current systems and replacement of faulty bonding systems.
- Repair and replacement of all electrical and hydraulic control systems on a 74 foot vessel.
- Inspection, design and modification of boat electrical systems to bring them into compliance with ABYC and NFPA 302 standard.
Projects for other clients have included most aspects of the marine services described above as well as the installation of computer local area networks, computer system setup and construction of personal computers from components. Have taught and assisted in the conduct of classes on marine electrical topics. Other experience includes: maintenance and repair of 100-ton commercial passenger vessels including planning and supervision of maintenance work and dock facilities; marine mechanic for a large marina and marine electrician doing work for boat building firms.
Education and Technical Training:
- Associate in Science Degree in Marine Propulsion Technology; vocational certificates in Marine Diesel and Gasoline Engine Technology.
- Technical courses in the areas of marine electrical systems, corrosion as well as fire and explosion investigation.
- Manufacturer training in marine electronics, generators, air conditioning and refrigeration systems and engine repair and maintenance.
- To keep skills current regularly takes part in continuing education courses, workshops and seminars.
Certifications:
- American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) initially certified as a “Master Technician”.
- American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) Marine Electrical Technician. One of the first 20 technicians to receive certification.
- American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) Marine Corrosion Technician. One of the first 25 technicians to receive certification.
- American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) Marine Systems Certification.
- National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) Advanced Marine Electronics Installer Certification from 2006 to 2014. Did not renew in 2014.