Deep Trekker is pleased to announce the appointment of Eric Starkweather. as Business Development Manager, Defense - USA. With over 13 years of service in the U.S. Navy, including a distinguished career as a Master Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technician, Starkweather brings extensive experience in underwater robotics and defense operations to the team.
Having utilized ROVs extensively for mine countermeasures, port security, and ship hull inspections during his military career, his appointment reflects Deep Trekker's commitment to delivering advanced underwater solutions tailored to the needs of defense organizations. He will lead Deep Trekker’s expansion efforts in the U.S. defense sector, operating from a new office in the United States.
“Eric’s background in naval special operations and his firsthand experience with ROV technology make him an excellent addition to our team,” said Cody Warner, Director of Sales and Marketing at Deep Trekker. “His understanding of the defense landscape and his ability to translate complex technical capabilities into real-world solutions will be invaluable as we continue to expand our presence in the U.S. defense market.”
Starkweather’s career began in 2010 when he joined the Navy through the Delayed Entry Program. Over the next 13 years, he honed his skills in explosive ordnance disposal and underwater operations. As a Master EOD Technician, he was instrumental in utilizing ROVs for missions such as mine countermeasures and port security. His ability to assess situations rapidly and adapt to high-pressure environments aligns with the strategic demands of business development.
“In the Navy, ROVs were critical for keeping operators out of harm’s way and conducting underwater reconnaissance efficiently,” said Starkweather.
“I’m excited to bring that expertise to Deep Trekker, helping defense teams understand how our ROV solutions can address their challenges.”
“In 2014, right before my first deployment, we were handed a small ROV with no instructions - just told to figure it out,” Starkweather recalled. “By the end of the deployment, ROVs had become one of our primary tools. They allowed us to conduct safer and more effective missions, reducing the time divers spent in the water by 30 to 45 minutes.”
Starkweather’s practical knowledge of underwater robotics aligns directly with Deep Trekker’s mission to provide innovative solutions for defense operations. His hands-on experience with both observation-class and work-class ROVs gives him a unique perspective on the operational needs of naval forces.
“What excites me most about this role at Deep Trekker is getting back into something I’m truly passionate about. I really enjoyed my time in the Navy, especially being one of the first in my platoon to master ROVs and teach others how to use them. Now, as a civilian, I have the opportunity to give back to the communities I was once part of, and act as a subject matter expert. I’m eager to help them understand how Deep Trekker ROVs can address the gaps in their current systems and enhance their operations.”
Eric and his wife also manage a small ranch in Ramona, California, where they’ve learned valuable lessons in communication and community building.
“Everyone loves to ask about the ranch. It started out by chance when a friend needed a place to store a cow, and we had some space. When the farmer dropped it off, he mentioned having an extra one, and my wife and I looked at each other and thought, ‘Why not give it a try?’ From there, it grew into something bigger. It’s rewarding to know where your meat comes from and how it’s raised. We jokingly call it ‘humanely raised and occasionally verbally abused’, which is our favorite way to describe it. The ranch is small—just a five-acre property in Ramona, near San Diego—but it’s been a great experience for us. We know exactly where everything comes from, and it’s been beneficial for our family and our friends. I believe managing the ranch has also helped me develop communication skills that will be valuable in my role here at Deep Trekker, particularly in explaining the benefits of what we do.”
Deep Trekker has seen increasing demand for ROVs in defense applications, including underwater inspections, mine countermeasures, and port security. Starkweather’s appointment marks a strategic investment in the U.S. defense market.
“Having an ROV on board enhances both safety and operational capability,” Starkweather emphasized. “They allow for safer inspections and reduce the need to put divers at risk. The versatility and expanding capabilities of ROVs make them valuable assets for a wide range of missions.”
As Business Development Manager, Starkweather will focus on strengthening relationships with U.S. defense agencies, expanding Deep Trekker's product offerings, and identifying opportunities to integrate advanced ROV technologies into defense operations.
“Every Navy ship, team, or small craft should have some form of underwater remotely operated vehicle (ROV) capability,” noted Starkweather.
“There are countless scenarios where even a small ROV can play a crucial role in changing the dynamics and outcomes of a specific event. The versatility and potential applications of ROVs make them an invaluable asset for any operation.”
Starkweather is eager to leverage Deep Trekker's cutting-edge technology to meet the evolving needs of defense teams. With advancements in underwater robotics technology, Starkweather sees significant potential to enhance mission success and safety.
“The sonar system on the REVOLUTION ROV and the five-way manipulation grabber arm are unparalleled in their class,” Starkweather explained. “No other ROVs offer that level of capability. My goal is to reconnect with the teams I worked with in the military and help them see how Deep Trekker’s technology can enhance their operational effectiveness.”
His technical acumen, combined with his ability to translate complex specifications into actionable insights, will support Deep Trekker’s mission to provide versatile and reliable underwater solutions for defense applications.
Starkweather’s focus on communication and adaptability, skills honed in both EOD operations and multinational environments, will be pivotal as he builds relationships with defense contractors, military branches, and security agencies across the U.S.
“A big part of my role will be explaining the different ROV platforms and identifying the right fit for each team’s specific needs,” he said. “That means understanding both the technical requirements and the operational challenges these teams face.”
His initial goals include reconnecting with defense teams in key locations to demonstrate how Deep Trekker’s solutions can enhance mission readiness and safety. “I speak the same language as some of the people that we're trying to work with. I've lived and breathed the military life for 13 years, and I understand what it is they're looking for.”
Starkweather’s leadership philosophy, developed through managing diverse teams in the Navy, emphasizes leading by example and empowering team members to make decisions independently. This approach will guide his efforts to expand Deep Trekker’s footprint in the U.S. defense market.
“I think having someone who’s been there and understands the operational requirements will make a significant difference,” he said. “It’s about bridging the gap between what Deep Trekker offers and what defense teams need to succeed. Deep Trekker has grown significantly, and the advancements in ROV capabilities are remarkable. I’m excited to join a team that is committed to pushing the boundaries of what underwater robotics can do for defense applications.”
For more information about Deep Trekker’s defense solutions, check our industry page or connect with Eric Starkweather on LinkedIn.
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