MEESA Boat Launch Brings STEM to Life; Shows Future Careers

Newport News, VA – The Maritime Engineering and Environmental Science Academy (MEESA) hosted an exciting boat launch event on Friday, February 28, at the Brooks Crossing Innovation Center. The event brought together 53 10th-grade students from Newport News Public Schools for a hands-on learning experience focused on engineering, problem-solving, and career exploration. Students worked in teams to design, build, and launch their own boats, applying STEM concepts in a real-world setting. This interactive challenge provided students with a deeper understanding of the skills needed for careers in shipbuilding, logistics, and marine engineering. Through this experience, they gained practical insights into the maritime industry and the opportunities available in Hampton Roads.

Students meet with representatives from the ODU School of Supply Chain, Logistics, & Maritime

Throughout the day, students engaged with industry professionals who provided valuable knowledge about maritime careers and workforce development. Representatives from Newport News Shipbuilding, a division of HII, as well as the ODU School of Supply Chain, Logistics, and Maritime Operations, ODU Maritime Initiatives, QED, MI Technical Solutions, Fairlead, and the Hampton Roads Workforce Council participated in the event. These experts spoke with students about the technical skills and education necessary for success in the field. Their guidance helped students understand the direct connection between STEM education and real-world applications in the maritime sector. By interacting with professionals, students saw firsthand the many career pathways that exist within the industry.

Students enjoyed racing their boats against each other at the conclusion of the event.

The event underscored the importance of preparing students for future workforce opportunities through experiential learning. By tackling real-world challenges, students not only gained technical knowledge but also developed teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. Exposure to industry professionals allowed them to see the range of roles available in the maritime sector, from engineering and design to logistics and project management. The experience also reinforced the significance of innovation in shipbuilding and environmental science. These types of events play a crucial role in building the next generation of highly skilled workers in Hampton Roads.

As MEESA prepares to welcome its first students in fall 2025, events like this boat launch serve as a preview of the academy’s hands-on, career-focused curriculum. The program is designed to provide students with technical training, industry connections, and the foundational knowledge necessary for high-demand maritime careers. With strong support from education and industry leaders, MEESA is committed to developing a pipeline of skilled professionals who will contribute to the future of the maritime workforce. By continuing to offer engaging learning experiences, the academy is fostering the next generation of leaders in engineering, shipbuilding, and environmental science. To learn more about MEESA and the ODU Lab School Network, visit oduceio.org.