In order to determine the potential utilization of displaced aerospace and defense technical professionals in oceanography and ocean engineering, a study of ocean-oriented industry in Florida and Southern California was conducted by The National Society of Professional Engineers for the U.S. Department of Labor. After recent consolidation, this industry is operating well below full capability. Mainly as a result of increased federal activities in the oceans, moderate job expansion in selected areas is expected in the next few years. Short-term potential for utilization of professional manpower has been identified in the fields of naval architecture, oceanographic research, and data acquisition and management. Increased use of aerospace and defense manpower will be promoted by a trend towards rapidly broadening interests of the ocean-oriented community and increasing alignment of oceanography and ocean engineering goals. Realistic on-the-job training programs can enhance effective vocational orientation, perhaps in conjunction with current federally sponsored research and development programs. To reflect geographical differences in results, the San Diego and the Florida team reports are presented separately. Related chapters are announced as VT 018 435-018 451 in this issue. (Author/AG)