The SOCP originally established two classes of membership to encourage the widest possible participation: Member and Associate Member. This was intended to ensure that any interested organization had an opportunity to join, since there was no cash fee requirement for Associate Members. An organization joining as a Member made an annual cash contribution of $25,000 and had three votes at business meetings. A Member could also provide voluntary "in-kind contributions." Associate Members either contributed cash or "in-kind contributions" in the form of personnel time (shipboard or shoreside), vessel time, consultant services or material and/or special equipment. An Associate Member had one vote in all decision making functions at SOCP business meetings.
In November 1997, two major changes were implemented - a restructuring and a reduction in membership fees.
Under the restructuring, the Associate Member category was eliminated, leaving only a single membership class (Member). In addition, an Operations Committee was established to assist the SOCP Chairman and Vice Chairman or Co-Chairmen in the daily operations of the Cooperative. Any commercial member can be elected to the post of Chairman/Vice Chairman/Co-Chairman for a one-year term. Members of the Operations Committee are also elected for a term of one year. Neither the chair nor the representatives on the Operations Committee may serve more than two consecutive terms.
Of equal importance, is the reduction in membership fees. Any organization applying to become a member pays a reduced fee of $5,000 each program year. The fee and single membership class ensures that members participate on a level playing field and promotes ownership in the Cooperative.
The SOCP meets at least twice a year to determine technical direction and financial performance, evaluate technology demonstrations, approve an annual budget, and establish and refine operational policies. The SOCP Chairman and Vice Chairman or Co-Chairmen have overall responsibility for the Cooperative's actions, and act on the Cooperative's behalf and at its direction on all program matters.
Each major R&D initiative undertaken by the SOCP is supported by a technical team led by an SOCP Project Executive. The Project Executive is a member of SOCP or a designated associate from the Member's organization, who directs the implementation of the project initiative. The technical team may also include contractors, academicians, and vendors.
A Program Administrator is retained by the SOCP for assisting in the coordination of all activities of the SOCP, including membership meetings, progress reporting, and dissemination of information. The Program Administrator also maintains financial records for SOCP and prepares quarterly financial reports.
Organization