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Navy Hosted SeaPerch Challenge Inspires Interest in Science and Technology

Navy News Service

Story Number: NNS110506-01
5/6/2011

From Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Public Affairs

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (NNS) -- Naval Surface Warfare Centers Carderock and Indian Head partnered with the U.S. Naval Academy to host the Maryland Regional SeaPerch Challenge at the Academy's Rickover Hall, April 30.

The Regional SeaPerch Challenge is one of several outreach programs supported by Naval Sea Systems Command Warfare Centers to inspire students to pursue careers in science and technology.

"Our participation and support of STEM [science, technical, engineering and math] programs is critical to building the next-generation NAVSEA work force," said C.F. Snyder, NSWC Carderock technical director. "Our hope is that by mentoring students at an early age, they'll be inspired to pursue a STEM education and career with the Navy."

Engineers from the warfare centers volunteered as mentors throughout the school year to prepare students for the SeaPerch competition, a district-wide, one-day challenge where students compete in the design and function of a remotely-operated vehicle (ROV). Engineers teach students basic principles including buoyancy, propulsion and design, and assist students through all stages of construction. They also mentor them on career possibilities.

"I enjoy guiding the students through the learning process of engineering and encourage the students to always ask questions and try and try again," said Anthony Hagler, NSWC Carderock electrical engineer. "Teaching the students that not everything will go as planned is beneficial for them. That is why we make great strides to teach them how to assess the robots and develop new solutions."

During the competition, warfare center mentors helped the students compete the ROVs in a variety of underwater obstacles and judged the students on vehicle performance, maneuvering and recovery, innovative design, team presentations, design notebooks and team spirit.

"The excitement of the students, the cheers from other competitors and the continued encouragement from the mentors made science, technology, engineering, and mathematics come alive," said Toby Ratcliffe, NSWC Carderock outreach coordinator. "We'll continue to encourage these students so they will perform better and become more enthused with STEM."