Survival Systems USA Celebrates 25 Years with Opening of New Wind Training Facility​

Odds are, if you are a military member in any branch of the military who has gone through underwater egress training – you’ve likely used the Survival Systems’ equipment, been trained by Survival Systems’ personnel, or been trained in a program developed by Survival Systems. What started as an idea in 1982 from Albert Bohemier, a passionate safety advocate and Canadian Helicopter pilot, Survival Systems USA serves 8 US Navy locations, 4 US Marine Corps locations (w/ more under construction), 2 US Army locations, 1 US Air Force location, 1 US Coast Guard location, over 15 US Coast Guard support locations, and National Guard locations in over 45 states… and that’s just for starters.

The facility on Tower Avenue in Groton, opened on June 21, 1999, with critical help in establishing its footprint from CAA, seCTer, and the CDA. President and CEO Maria Hanna who started with Survival Systems in 1999, purchased the company in 2008 and established an ESOP.

To date, over 150,000 students in single and multi-day programs have been trained in aviation and water survival.

In 2019, Governor Ned Lamont called on Connecticut to move towards a zero-carbon energy economy by 2040, a transition that would require a substantial amount of offshore wind energy. Other states around New England were similarly positioned. To meet the demand that was anticipated, Survival Systems began offering Global Wind Organization or GWO programs in 2020 and since then, there have been over 1,500 students trained. The demand for quality training is only growing. This Friday marks the opening of their new building and the moving of the tower indoors for year-round training. Expected growth will include expansion of the interior climbing apparatus and multiple training locations.

“The Connecticut Airport Authority applauds Survival Systems USA, Inc. as it celebrates its 25th anniversary and expansion,” said Kevin A. Dillon, A.A.E., Executive Director of the Connecticut Airport Authority (CAA). “Over the years, the CAA has been a proud supporter of Survival Systems’ initiatives and growth to provide lifesaving training and skills for those traveling by air, water, and land. We congratulate them on these milestones and the positive impact their expertise and knowledge has had on countless individuals and this community.”

"The Connecticut Wind Collaborative is thrilled to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Survival Systems, a trailblazer in safety training and a pivotal force in advancing offshore wind initiatives.

As the first New England Sea Survival and HUET Training Center since 1999 and the first in New England to offer GWO training, their commitment to excellence, innovation, and employee well-being is exemplary. With a 90% employee retention rate and being 45% employee-owned, they set a remarkable standard. As we join them in the grand opening of their new facility and celebrate their rich history, we look forward to continuing our strong partnership and supporting their vital contributions to the industry. Congratulations on this incredible milestone!" – Kristin Urbach, Executive Director, Connecticut Wind Collaborative

Survival Systems USA Press Release

20 June 2024

Leader in Underwater Egress & GWO Safety Training Expands in Groton​