Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center (MARMC) wrapped up its semester-long Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) program at Norfolk Christian Schools in Norfolk, Virginia, May 27.

The program kicked off in March when MARMC’s STEM team began visiting the school twice a week to meet with middle and high school students. They provided resources and helped the students develop the underwater remotely operated vehicles (ROV) and autonomous underwater vehicles, SeaPearch and SeaGlide. This all culminated with marketing and engineering presentations for their parents and school administrators.

“Having MARMC in town working with the community presents a great opportunity for our kids to learn from the people who actually make their careers from working in STEM fields. It is helping them become better problem solvers and critical thinkers,” said Upper School Science Teacher, Dave Fisher.

Twenty-four students participated in the program. It was the second year the school opened its doors to MARMC, but COVID-19 pandemic forced the program to shut down early last year making this year much more special.

“This has been a hard year. COVID has made everything so much harder, but the fact these kids were still able to go build and present what they learned in front of their parents when many other students can’t is something we’re very grateful for,” said Dean of Students, Lori Lister.

MARMC plans to continue its STEM program this summer by engaging with area homeschool students. They want to continue to encourage kids to explore the possibilities of STEM while preparing them for the future.

“I didn’t have a program like this when I was in high school, so I think it is great to be able to help incorporate STEM into the school system,” said MARMC STEM Organizer Engineman 2nd Class (AW) Aysha Adkins. “I hope our students can learn something new because STEM affects our everyday lives. This research goes a long way toward making a difference.”

MARMC provides surface ship maintenance, management and oversight of private sector maintenance and fleet technical assistance to ships in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States and provides support to the fifth and sixth Fleet Area of Responsibilities. They are also responsible for the floating dry-dock Dynamic (AFDL-6).