asnetw News

Guest Speaker Dr. Elspeth McMahon

Andrea McCusker — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 20:31:13 GMT

At the February dinner/meeting program, ASNE Tidewater members and friends had the pleasure of hearing from Dr. Elspeth McMahon, Old Dominion University (ODU) Associate Vice President for Maritime Initiatives. Elspeth made a positive impression with attendees showing how far ODU has come on maritime initiatives. New courses, new hires, outreach programs, research and development initiatives, and ways to get involved were some of the highlights. For those who were unable to attend, here is a LINK to the informative presentation.

Guest Speaker CAPT Matt Schlarmann

Andrea McCusker — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 17:51:23 GMT

We are grateful to CAPT Matt Schlarmann, Naval Station Norfolk Commanding Officer, for sharing his evening with the ASNE Tidewater Section members and friends at our January dinner program.

The Captain’s insightful presentation “To Prepare the Fleet” shared important history, mission, and challenges of maintaining the world’s largest naval station, and gave us all valuable appreciation for the shore-based infrastructure, or Foundry, required to keep our ships ready for tasking.

ASNE-SIKA Ultimate Build-A-Boat Challenge 2025

Andrea McCusker — Sun, 22 Jun 2025 20:00:33 GMT

The 29th annual ASNE-Sika Ultimate Build-A-Boat Challenge was held at Freemason Harbor during the Norfolk Harborfest June 7-8, 2025. Many thanks to the boatbuilders, sponsors, and volunteers for another successful event!

Thunderstorms that threatened to wipe out the weekend held off until 6pm Sunday, just minutes after cleaning up the build site. Six of twenty teams had to back out in the last week but promised to be back next year. The 14 teams remaining were awesome!

The Sunday Race event featured the largest crowd of Harborfest weekend, as told by Harborfest organizers. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves and the comradery was fantastic.

Most importantly, ASNE raised $17,611.00 in total sponsorships and donations, with a NET of $10,382.00 for our Scholarship & STEM programs!

Please see the links below containing many photos of the event.

2025 BUILD-A-BOAT "ALL PICS" GALLERY (435 photos)

Favorites_2025 Build A Boat (updated link) (38 Photos)

Until next year... Paddle On

ASNE Tidewater's April Program Held at PEP Industry Reception

Andrea McCusker — Wed, 14 May 2025 16:12:56 GMT

ASNE’s grant-funded Promoting Electric Propulsion (PEP) Workforce Development program/competition returned to Virginia Beach April 15-17 for another exciting event. The ASNE Tidewater Section was thrilled to join forces with the PEP team by combining the Section's April dinner/meeting program with PEP25's industry reception.

The reception was a great opportunity for industry representatives to connect with the young engineers from various universities around the country. The students were outgoing, engaging, and eager to connect with industry reps. The students heard from several speakers discussing career paths in our industry. They also heard from ASNE Tidewater’s special guest speaker, Capt. Joseph E. Klopfer, USN, AIRLANT N43.

CAPT Megan Thomas Guest Speaker at October 2024 Dinner/Meeting Program

Andrea McCusker — Mon, 20 Jan 2025 20:22:51 GMT

Thank you to Captain Megan Thomas, Force Materiel Officer (N4), Naval Surface Force Atlantic, who kicked off our technical dinner program in October with an informative and engaging discussion. The video presentation depicting the Navy's operations in the Red Sea and readiness discussions in general are at the forefront of industry and Navy priorities.

Guest Speaker RADM (Ret) Matthew Zirkle

Andrea McCusker — Sat, 13 Apr 2024 17:06:42 GMT

Matthew A. Zirkle, Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy (Retired), Regional Director, Submarine Industrial Base delivered an engaging presentation to ASNE Tidewater members on March 20th. He highlighted Submarine Industrial Base activities across the nation in support of Virginia and Columbia Class submarine construction, emphasizing maritime workforce development for the future. A lively Q&A session followed.

ASNE Tidewater Members/Guests Hear from Ms. Elizabeth Nashold

Andrea McCusker — Sun, 10 Mar 2024 13:25:19 GMT

We were very pleased to have NAVIFOR Deputy Director, Ms. Elizabeth Nashold, speak at ASNE Tidewater Section’s February 21st dinner/meeting. Ms. Nashold provided an overview of NAVIFOR Type Commander responsibilities managing the manpower, training, modernization, and maintenance needs of the Information Warfare community.

CAPT "Jip" Mosman Guest Speaker - January 2024 Dinner/Meeting

Andrea McCusker — Sun, 10 Mar 2024 12:54:05 GMT

NNSY Commander, CAPT “Jip” Mosman, USN, was ASNE Tidewater Section’s guest speaker in January. CAPT Mosman’s presentation addressed current operations at NNSY and provided an update for the Section members and guests on the Navy’s Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program. That, along with other improvements, will enable NNSY to accommodate the Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) carrier class. CAPT Mosman also addressed training the shipyard workforce of the future.

ASNE Tidewater's Guest Speaker for November Dinner, Mr. Matthew Swartz

Andrea McCusker — Tue, 05 Dec 2023 14:19:01 GMT

At the November dinner/meeting, ASNE Tidewater members and guests had the pleasure of hearing from Mr. Matthew Swartz, Executive Director and Chief of Staff, U.S. Fleet Forces Command. Mr. Swartz provided great insight on the operational challenges the fleet faces and how the maintenance community can help mitigate and support the greatest Navy in the world, even though China is nipping at our heals.

October Dinner/Meeting Guest Speaker CAPT Stephen Sarar

Andrea McCusker — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 17:10:45 GMT

At the October dinner/meeting, ASNE Tidewater Section had the pleasure of having CAPT Stephen Sarar join us to discuss how SURFMEPP excelled during his 3-year tour (which included COVID), giving us some interesting insight into the importance of SURFMEPP in availability planning and funding, and addressing recent work with new organizations. With his three-year tour coming to a close, CAPT Sarar was able to give the attendees a valuable overview of the process which has proven to show success in surface ship maintenance planning.

Virginia USCG Sector Commander CAPT Jennifer Stockwell Guest Speaker

Andrea McCusker — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 15:36:25 GMT

On March 15th, the ASNE Tidewater Section was privileged to have Virginia USCG Sector Commander CAPT Jennifer Stockwell join us as our guest speaker for the monthly dinner. CAPT Stockwell addressed her authorities and responsibilities as the Captain of the Port and as Sector Commander, and highlighted her priorities and biggest challenges.

Additionally, CDR Jeff Zamarin, USCG, who came with CAPT Stockwell, was able to provide details behind the engineering challenges that the USCG Virginia sector had to overcome and provided an overview of the USCG's newest shipbuilding plan.

The Captain's presentation is available to view HERE.

CAPT Jay Young Provides MARMC Update at February Dinner Program

Andrea McCusker — Sat, 18 Feb 2023 20:38:45 GMT

For February's monthly dinner, CAPT Jay Young, the Commanding Officer of Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center (MARMC), discussed specific examples of MARMC work performed on Atlantic Fleet ships, emphasized the importance of TSRAs in assessing ships, and highlighted that USS GETTYSBURG was finally underway the week of the dinner, for the first time in 8 years.

On a more sobering note, CAPT Young addressed the recent rash of MARMC suicides and the efforts his command and the Navy are making to bolster in-house counseling. It was a great opportunity for attendees involved in ship repair to hear from our local RMC leadership.

The Captain's presentation is linked here.

RADM Brendan McLane Speaks at January Dinner Program

Andrea McCusker — Sat, 18 Feb 2023 03:00:34 GMT

At the January 18 dinner, we had the privilege of having RADM Brendan McLane, Commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic Fleet, as our guest speaker.

In what was the largest dinner turnout in the last several years, we received an update on Naval Surface Forces, what missions our ships are executing, and a look into the future of the fleet. Additionally, RADM McLane addressed specific maintenance areas where we are doing well and those where we are falling short as a maintenance team.

It was a tremendous opportunity for our Section to meet and have discussions with our Navy's Surface leadership.

ODU's Maritime Initiatives

Andrea McCusker — Tue, 29 Nov 2022 13:57:02 GMT

ASNE Tidewater's November dinner/meeting guest speaker was Elspeth McMahon, ODU Associate Vice President for Maritime Initiatives. Ms. McMahon discussed ODU’s future establishment of the School of Supply Chain, Logistics, and Maritime Operations and her role coordinating ODU's programs, outreach, and services that engage with the region's maritime enterprises. These include port logistics and supply chain; shipbuilding and repair; naval sustainment; offshore wind energy; and coastal resilience. Following her presentation there was an excellent Q&A period with the dinner attendees.

RADM Chris Engdahl - Naval Safety Command

Andrea McCusker — Tue, 25 Oct 2022 20:08:29 GMT

RADM Chris Engdahl, USN, was guest speaker at the October 19, 2022 ASNE Tidewater Section dinner. The Admiral gave an informative and engaging presentation on the history and recent CNO directed restructuring of the Naval Safety Center into the Naval Safety Command -- now serving as the naval enterprise lead for non-nuclear safety standards, expertise and oversight of the Navy and Marine Corps Safety Management System (SMS).

In addition to discussing several high-profile accidents in the fleet, the Admiral’s presentation also included Naval Safety Command’s mission and responsibilities, his perspective on the recent TYCOM assessments, and Q&A with the dinner attendees.

Fleet Maintenance and Modernization Symposium Virginia Beach 2022!

Andrea McCusker — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 16:23:48 GMT

ASNE's FMMS 2022 is around the corner and we hope to see many of our members and friends there! The Symposium is September 19-21 at the Virginia Beach Convention Center. If you're not registered yet, here is a LINK to the website for registration, and additional information. Some of the Symposium highlights include:

Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Michael M. Gilday invited for the keynote address
Exceptional speakers and panelists
Innovation Theater speakers and town hall question sessions
Technical Papers presented
Sponsorship opportunities (still a couple of slots open!)
MSC and U.S. Navy Port Engineers engaging with attendees and exhibitors
Many exhibiting companies but room for more! Early Bird rates end August 19!

Check out the AGENDA on the website.

ASNE Tidewater Section will have a booth there and we hope you will stop by and see us!

ASNE-Sika Ultimate Build-A-Boat Challenge 2022 Highlights!

Andrea McCusker — Tue, 16 Aug 2022 23:52:38 GMT

The ASNE-Sika Ultimate Build-A-Boat Challenge showcased June 11-12, 2022 at Norfolk Harborfest as we celebrated the 26th Anniversary of this great event!

Due to the stormy weather Sunday afternoon, the Build-A-Boat race took place Saturday June 18, 2022, at the home of Charlie and Chris Ellin in Sandbridge (Back Bay area). There were 17 teams who built boats and 13 of them rearranged their schedule to race on the alternate date. Around 50 people came out and everyone had a blast!

Please view our photo presentation of the entire event, and a video of race day. Special thanks to Mike D’Amato (ASNE Tidewater), John Mark Bessada (Sika Corp), and all the many volunteers who made this event possible! Congratulations to all the participants and the winners!

Captain Dianna Wolfson Featured Speaker at ASNE TW May Dinner

Andrea McCusker — Wed, 15 Jun 2022 13:04:21 GMT

ASNE TW was very excited to have Captain Dianna Wolfson, Commander, Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) as our special guest speaker at the Section’s May dinner. The Captain outlined the Shipyard’s new Strategic Framework to communicate their path forward on achieving their vision. The Strategic Framework is their “tool to communicate their updated mission and vision statements both with NNSY and externally, and shows how initiatives executed across the command tie together with why their command exists (warships). More importantly, the visual representation of the Strategic Framework combined with purposeful command-level strategic initiatives will align them as ONE TEAM on pillars that have the greatest impact on performance and achieving ONE MISSION.”

The Section was also thrilled to present another ASNE TW Engineer of the Quarter award. The award went to HT1(SW) David Weaver, USN, Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center, Hull Branch. Petty Officer Weaver was recognized for consistently demonstrating superior high-quality performance in the execution of his duties. His Commanding Officer, Captain Timothy A. Barney, said the Petty Officer “exceeds expectations and challenges to ensure 46 Naval Vessels are structurally sound and ready for critical Chief of Naval Operation tasking. He effectively led 134 Sailors and 17 civilians in the completion of 1,672 maintenance procedures through 19 Chief of Naval Operation Availabilities and saved the Navy $3,200,000 in contractor costs.” Congratulations HT1 Weaver!

Guest Speaker RDML Peck, Board of Inspection and Survey President

Andrea McCusker — Tue, 03 May 2022 21:17:15 GMT

The ASNE Tidewater Section was pleased and very grateful to have RDML Randall Peck, USN, President, Board of Inspection and Survey as our guest speaker at our April Dinner/Meeting. The Admiral summarized the 2021 Insurv Annual Report of in-service material inspections, new construction trials, and end of life inspections. The Board made 26 comprehensive recommendations spanning PMS, technical issues, logistics, manning, and training.

If you were unable to attend the dinner, here is a link to the Admiral’s presentation.

Downey Provides Ford Class Carrier Program Update

Andrea McCusker — Sat, 02 Apr 2022 19:27:04 GMT

The Tidewater ASNE Section was pleased to have RADM James P. Downey, USN, Program Executive Officer for Aircraft Carriers speak at our March 16 dinner/meeting. The Admiral updated the Section on the post construction and operational testing of the Navy’s newest aircraft carrier - USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78). Admiral Downey also talked about follow on construction of CVN-79 and CVN-80 as well maintenance and operational updates on the existing carrier fleet.

The meeting was well attended with almost 70 members and guests joining us in person or on-line. The Admiral's presentation is available to view here.

Glen Sturtevant Addresses Surface Navy Warship Arctic Operability

Andrea McCusker — Mon, 28 Feb 2022 12:57:28 GMT

ASNE Tidewater's February Dinner/Meeting program featured Mr. Glen Sturtevant (SES), Director for Science & Technology at PEO Ships and NAVSEA’s Surface Ship Maintenance & Modernization Directorate SEA-21. Glen focused his presentation on the Surface Navy Warship Arctic Operability; the challenges and opportunities to extend the frequency and duration of U.S. Navy surface ship operations in this new frontier of critical strategic importance to the United States. His presentation is available here.

Glen has been a staunch supporter of ASNE and has addressed the Tidewater Section before. We always welcome his unique insight into the development and fielding of critical S&T programs. Thanks Glen!

Offshore Wind Presentation

Andrea McCusker — Mon, 31 Jan 2022 15:08:07 GMT

Our January 19th Dinner/Meeting program featured tag team presentations by Doug Smith, President & CEO of the Hampton Roads Economic Development Alliance, and Matt Smith (no relation), Alliance’s Director for Offshore Wind.

With 40% of Virginia’s electricity to be sourced from renewable energy by 2030, a federal target to deploy 30GW by 2030, and active OSW projects already in 11 states, the demand signal for Offshore Wind is finally becoming real and coming fast. And the state of Virginia, with its port infrastructure, skilled maritime workforce, terminal facilities and waterfront acreage in Hampton Roads / Tidewater, is well positioned to become a major supply chain hub for this emerging industry.

This topic was requested by and of great interest to our ASNE-Tidewater member companies looking to listen, learn and ultimately diversify their future business. We anticipate encore presentations at future ASNE dinner meetings as the OSW market unfolds.

If you were unable to attend the January program, here is a link to the presentation.

ASNE NNE Section Hosts Virtual Meeting Featuring CONSTELLATION (FFG 62) Program

Andrea McCusker — Sun, 09 Jan 2022 18:17:13 GMT

ASNE's Northern New England (NNE) Section held their first virtual meeting on December 9, 2021. The meeting featured guest speaker Joe Satterfield, SUPSHIP, Bath, ME who spoke about the Constellation Class Frigate (FFG 62) Program. The Constellation (FFG 62) class guided missile frigates will be a highly capable and survivable multi-mission asset designed for operations in blue water and littoral environments.

Linked here is a copy of the Constellation (FFG 62) program overview presentation.

Author David Poyer Speaks at December 2021 Dinner/Meeting Program

Andrea McCusker — Sat, 08 Jan 2022 23:04:49 GMT

Our December dinner/meeting program featured naval fiction author David Poyer as our guest speaker. David was a US Naval Academy graduate, served 30 years in the Navy, and worked in industry for several years including as a naval engineer at Newport News Shipbuilding, among other interesting positions. He has published over 50 books, including his latest publication Arctic Sea. Poyer discussed how his education and experience in naval engineering, defense analysis, and advanced technology both contributed to, and gained from, his work in naval fiction.

RADM Greene Speaker at November Dinner/Meeting Program

Andrea McCusker — Mon, 13 Dec 2021 16:13:45 GMT

At our November dinner/meeting program, RADM Bill Greene, USN, USFFC Fleet Maintenance Officer, spoke at length about the Sailor Self Sufficiency Campaign and the Future of Sailor Maintenance. Adm. Greene emphasized the career learning continuum of sailors and the application of IT resources.

Following his remarks, the Admiral took many questions from the dinner attendees, from both in-person attendees and those attending virtually.

We appreciate RADM Greene's continued support of ASNE and the Tidewater Section.

ASNE Tidewater's Dinner/Meeting Program September 2021

Andrea McCusker — Wed, 06 Oct 2021 19:13:40 GMT

The ASNE Tidewater Section kicked off their Sept 2021—May 2022 dinner schedule with ASNE President Mark Hugel as guest speaker. Mark provided an update on Society priorities and challenges in light of the pandemic impacts over the past 18 months. Dinner/meetings are now in-person with a virtual option available.

It was also exciting to see Chief Warrant Officer 3, Travis Otte, accept ASNE Tidewater’s Engineer of the Quarter award for 3rd quarter 2021! The CWO’s Commanding Officer, Joseph P. Thompson, USS Mesa Verde, provided the Letter of Recommendation. He acknowledged the Warrant Officer's knowledge and professionalism along with his "tireless devotion to duty" as the ship's Main Propulsion Assistant and Ship Maintenance Management Officer. Congratulations!

VADM Galinis Headlines Return to “In-Person” Program Events

Andrea McCusker — Wed, 26 May 2021 17:08:21 GMT

Welcome Back! The Tidewater Section is so pleased to announce that we were able to host live and in-person dinner events in April and May. After a year of cancellations and virtual forums, yes it felt as fresh and welcoming as Spring.

On April 20^th, Captain Steve Sarar (CO, SURFMEPP) addressed an audience that was limited by CDC and State guidelines to just 25 in-person attendees, plus we had another 30 guests on-line. Capt. Sarar was terrific, and even with limited capacity, this gathering felt like we had finally turned a corner. In early May restrictions were relaxed again to a maximum of 100 indoors, and on May 19^th VADM Bill Galinis (NAVSEA) spoke to an audience of 60 in-person plus 38 virtual guests from as far away as Bahrain.

Thank you ASNE members for your patience and flexibility during this pandemic, and to Admiral Galinis for helping us close out our Fall – Spring program year in high style.

ASNE Tidewater Holds Live/Virtual Program April 2021

Andrea McCusker — Sun, 25 Apr 2021 22:31:29 GMT

Many thanks to those who were able to join us in-person at our dinner/meeting program on April 21. It is wonderful to be able to meet face-to-face once again after so many months. We also greatly appreciate those members and guests who joined us virtually!

ASNE Chairman Andy Vasquez recognized Guy Zanti and Kathleen Murray who served numerous positions within the ASNE Tidewater Section over the last several years. Guy, Kathleen and family will be leaving the Hampton Roads area and we wish them all the best. We are very grateful for their service and support of ASNE. Thank you Guy and Kathleen!

Captain Stephen Sarar, Commanding Officer, Surface Maintenance Engineering Planning Program (SURFMEPP), was our guest speaker for the evening. The Captain presented SURFMEPP’s mission and vision (what they do), footprint (where they are), Product Value Stream (how they do it), Directive Maintenance (what they’re focused on), and Life Cycle Investment Trends: Surface Ship Engineered Operating Cycle (SSEOC) & Life Cycle Health Assessment (LCHA) (how they grade their work).

Here is a link to CAPT Sarar's presentation.

ASNE TW ODU Chapter Students Tour VMASC

Andrea McCusker — Thu, 01 Apr 2021 19:04:17 GMT

Students Neil St. Clair and Daniel Erdogan with ASNE TW's Old Dominion University Chapter provided a recap of their recent tour of VMASC:

“On March 23, the ASNE Tidewater Old Dominion University Student chapter had the privilege to tour the Virginia Modeling Analysis & Simulation Center (VMASC) in Suffolk. The tour began with a brief history lesson of VMASC, which transitioned into a conversation about their various projects. Some of these projects include providing assistance on building the highway that leads into Busch Gardens and STEM fairs for children on the autism spectrum to stimulate development and cognitive function.

Students had an opportunity to experience some of the simulations hands-on. First, the students got to fly a Cessna plane around a virtual Hampton Roads with a flight simulator. Second, the students were introduced to a virtual reality simulation that simulated a bat's life and how echolocation works. Students were tasked with using echolocation to find and eat mosquitoes while avoiding obstacles such as trees and mountains. It was a fascinating look into the technology being developed by the simulation and modeling industry.

The final stop was a look into the digital shipbuilding lab; the students were presented a boat that VMASC had previously brought to competition. The students also got an insight into how AR (Augmented Reality) was used in the shipbuilding industry to place and fit pipes, doors, and other various components a ship would have. Overall it was a very enlightening experience. We hope to continue our work on the ASNE Promoting Electric Propulsion (PEP) competition at this facility and other projects.

A special thank you to Mr. Mike Barkan and Mr. Joe Kosteczko for giving us the opportunity to tour this extraordinary facility.”

ASNE Tidewater's All-Virtual Program March 2021

Andrea McCusker — Thu, 18 Mar 2021 19:50:44 GMT

We had 71 members and guests join us for our March virtual program!

Very special thanks to our guest speaker RDML Jason Lloyd, Chief Engineer and Deputy Commander for Ship Design, Integration and Naval Engineering, SEA-05, Naval Sea Systems Command.

Here is a link to the Admiral's presentation.

ASNE Tidewater's ODU Student Chapter Tour of Fairlead

Andrea McCusker — Mon, 08 Mar 2021 12:36:14 GMT

Students with ASNE Tidewater's ODU Student Chapter toured Fairlead February 22, 2021 at their Portsmouth manufacturing and waterfront facilities. The students were quite taken by the diversity of the company’s strong capabilities, particularly their engineering-driven programs. They witnessed firsthand some of Fairlead’s products at various stages of production and/or testing. The students asked many engaging questions and our Fairlead hosts were very accommodating.

At the end of the tour, Mr. Keith Hubble, Fairlead Senior Engineer and Director of Strategic Product Development, graciously agreed to become a mentor to Neil St. Clair, ODU Student Chapter President. The student mentor process is an important goal of the ODU Chapter this year. We look forward to matching all ODU Chapter students with ASNE mentors before the year is over.

Mr. Joe Kosteczko, Assistant Director of Digital Shipbuilding for ODU’s Virginia Modeling, Analysis & Simulation Center (VMASC) and Ms. Jessica Zimmerman (VMASC Communications Coordinator) were also in attendance for the tour. Joe extended an invitation to Fairlead and the ODU students to tour ODU’s VMASC facility. Special thanks to Jessica for capturing many of the photos you see below.

ASNE Tidewater Holds All-Virtual Program February 2021

Andrea McCusker — Thu, 18 Feb 2021 12:58:15 GMT

Many thanks to Captain Tim Barney, Commander, Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center (MARMC), the guest speaker at ASNE Tidewater's first all-virtual "Dinner"/Meeting program! We had many members and friends attend the Microsoft Teams event the evening of February 17, and we greatly appreciated their patience as we navigated our way through the virtual platform.

As promised, here is a link to CAPT Barney's presentation.

ASNE Tidewater Dinner/Meeting Program October 2020

Andrea McCusker — Fri, 04 Dec 2020 16:35:48 GMT

The ASNE Tidewater Section held its first live event since last February! Typically our Section holds monthly dinner/meeting programs featuring guest speakers from the naval industry from October through May, but due to the virus we had to cancel several of the events this year. The Section considered holding a virtual meeting for the kickoff of our first dinner/meeting of the 2020/2021 season, but instead decided to hold a virtual AND live program. The Section conferred with the hotel on all safety precautions. The event was attended by 24 members/guests in person, and by 17 virtually. Not a bad turn-out, and hopefully the shape of things to come!

We greatly appreciate our guest speaker, Mr. Mark Hugel, the President of ASNE National who provided us the pulse of the Society. Mark also gave much praise and recognition to ASNE staff for their ability to quickly and proficiently learn how to coordinate and conduct virtual events!

February Dinner/Meeting Program 2020

Andrea McCusker — Thu, 20 Feb 2020 21:47:02 GMT

VADM Dave Lewis, Director of the Defense Contract Management Agency, was the guest speaker at the ASNE Tidewater section dinner/meeting program February 19th. VADM Lewis is one of the longest (if not the longest) serving EDOs in the community today and has been an ED Flag since 2009. In addition to DCMA, he served in fleet maintenance (CNSF N43), fleet modernization (SPAWAR), and ship construction (NAVSEA/PEO Ships) roles.

Very passionate about his position at DCMA, Adm. Lewis provided a thorough explanation of DCMA’s role and mission in his presentation. He highlighted DCMA’s alignment with the Secretary of Defense’s priorities, DCMA’s scope of work, span of control, product deliveries breakdown by platform, and unit cost by platform. He also underscored the posture of cyber security for a majority of companies, noting that small businesses have a ways to go to meet good cyber hygiene. Adm. Lewis was gracious in taking a number of questions and was very engaging with the group.

Linked here is a copy of the Admiral’s brief.

ASNE Members Tour the Virginia Modeling Analysis and Simulation Center at ODU

Andrea McCusker — Thu, 06 Feb 2020 19:51:03 GMT

From flight simulation, digital senses immersion, a look into the deep past, diving into a bulkhead on an aircraft carrier, and experiencing the echolocation of a bat in a first-person view, ASNE Tidewater members and friends visited multiple simulation labs at ODU’s Virginia Modeling Analysis and Simulation Center in Suffolk. Guests learned about various research projects happening throughout ODU-VMASC and were able to experience first-hand some of the virtual reality simulations! As an entity of ODU’s modeling and simulation pipeline, VMASC is grounded in the utilitarian principle of improving the human condition and mankind’s understanding of the word through innovation and transdisciplinary research and development. Senior Project Scientist and Lab Director Hector Garcia explained various ways researchers at VMASC use models, simulations, and visualizations to help create/formulate answers to complex problems, design experiments, analyze data, and interpret results. Guests also visited and learned about ODU-VMASC’s Digital Shipbuilding program from Program Manager, Joe Kosteczko, and Curriculum Coordinator, Jessica Johnson. In the Digital Shipbuilding Lab, guests learned about innovative practices to enhance workforce development, STEM curriculum K-12, and research/development within the maritime industry through an engineering design challenge with virtual reality, augmented reality, and 3D modeling. ODU-VMASC’s Digital Shipbuilding team are proud members of the ASNE Tidewater chapter.

January Dinner/Meeting Program 2020

Andrea McCusker — Thu, 06 Feb 2020 19:41:38 GMT

Many thanks to our members and guests who attended ASNE TW’s January dinner/meeting program. The evening began with recognition and presentation of a citation to the ASNE TW Engineer of the Quarter (4th quarter 2019) to Hull Technician First Class (SW/EX) Jeffrey Crebs, USN. HT1’s Commanding Officer, USS McFaul (DDG 74) Rusty Williamson, was on hand to support his sailor. HT1 Crebs was very excited and honored to receive the award. He and his wife Michelle greatly appreciated the recognition by ASNE TW and for the recommendation of award from HT1 Crebs’ Commanding Officer.

Our guest speaker for the evening was RDML Paul Spedero, USFFC Fleet Readiness Officer (N02R). The Fleet Integrated Readiness and Analysis (FIRA) Office was established in November 2019 by ADM Grady with the intent to develop readiness metrics that integrate resourcing inputs to readiness outputs. The newly formed FIRA office is tasked to drive Navy-wide, centrally managed data governance and develop USFFC staff analysis and analytic skills. RDML Spedero serves as the Force Readiness authority to define, analyze, integrate, and articulate readiness through one set of Fleet readiness and material condition policies and standards.

RDML Spedero’s remarks centered on ADM Grady's Revolutionize Readiness Campaign Plan. “The goal is to ‘bend the curve’ on Readiness ... with urgency - work on the problem, not in the problem ... keep a steady strain avoiding boom or bust cycles and lastly - ‘stop talking and start doing.’ To responsibly grow and dynamically operate the Fleet, we must have effective and predictable sustainability. We must squeeze every ounce of Readiness out of every dollar we get. We must revolutionize how we identify, analyze, and visualize not only current readiness concerns, but also articulate barriers to readiness generation across all echelons and work toward expressing the resources required for the readiness output.”

December Dinner/Meeting Program 2019

Andrea McCusker — Mon, 13 Jan 2020 18:46:38 GMT

The December 18 dinner/meeting program featured guest speaker Dan Spagone, CNRMC Director of Intermediate Maintenance. Dan addressed the criticality and progress made towards improving sailor self-sufficiency, the ability to maintain their systems at sea without an over-reliance on shore support. The holiday crowd of 65 guests was festive and everyone enjoyed closing out the year socializing with business friends and colleagues.

ASNE TW Members Tour Hampton Roads Naval Museum

Andrea McCusker — Fri, 03 Jan 2020 16:34:23 GMT

ASNE Tidewater sponsored a guided tour at the Hampton Roads Naval Museum on December 14, 2019. Special thanks to John Pentangelo (Museum Director), who led ASNE members and friends through the museum and special exhibit, “The Ten Thousand-Day War at Sea, The U.S. Navy in Vietnam, 1950 - 1975.” Thanks also to ASNE members Charlie Pfeifer and Ray Weber (Vietnam vets) who shared from their experiences during the tour. ASNE Tidewater also took this opportunity to have Pam Schools (Section Chair) present Mr. Pentangelo a STEM Grant for the Hampton Roads Naval Historical Foundation’s STEM-based LEGO® Shipbuilding Program. Congratulations! Link to Event Photos

November Dinner/Meeting Program 2019

Andrea McCusker — Tue, 10 Dec 2019 12:49:59 GMT

The November 20 ASNE Tidewater Dinner/Meeting Program was a resounding success, with a terrific guest speaker Ms. Stephanie Douglas and a capacity turnout of 110 guests! Ms. Douglas is well-known in the Tidewater community, having served in key leadership positions locally at US Fleet Forces Command and most recently as the Executive Director for SEA-21/CNRMC. She currently serves as the Director for Industrial Operations (SEA-04) at NAVSEA, and addressed the audience in that capacity. Special guests in the audience included the new DASN Sustainment Mr. Sean Burke, Director Fleet Maintenance, RDML Bill Greene, and ASNE President RADM (Ret) Mark Hugel. We’re also very pleased to see the positive trend continue with more Naval officers and Enlisted attending, as well as students from ODU and the Maritime Academy at Hampton High School.

October Dinner/Meeting Program 2019

Andrea McCusker — Wed, 20 Nov 2019 20:12:04 GMT

At the dinner/meeting program on October 16th, we had the pleasure of a full house of 90+ guests enjoying professional fellowship and a guest speaker presentation by the new Fleet Maintenance Officer, RDML Bill Greene (USFF N43). Admiral Greene shared his perspective on some of his top priorities and concerns four months into the position, notably the demand signal for maintenance outpacing capacity, aligning contracting strategy to support future investment and surge, and on-time delivery out of both public and private yards.

Also, during the evening, we recognized and honored our Tidewater Section Chair of 2018-2019, Jessica Galassie, and the 3rd Quarter CY 2019 Engineer of the Quarter (EOQ) recipient, Damage Control Chief Petty Officer (Surface Warfare/Air Warfare) Anthony R. Pagliarini from USS VICKSBURG. Anthony had his CO, XO and Chief Engineer joining him in a prideful show of support!

ASNE Tidewater Hosts SEVALS Event

Andrea McCusker — Wed, 20 Nov 2019 19:55:45 GMT

ASNE Tidewater membership and friends were invited to the South Eastern Virginia Live Steamers (SEVALS) event at the home of Retired Vice Admiral Dave Architzel in Suffolk, Virginia on Saturday, October 19.

There were several ride-on locomotives, and over a mile of train track around the property. The SEVALS group invited ASNE to get a good feel for steam engineering by providing an opportunity to learn about steam propulsion, and a chance to ride the railroad! They highlighted a gas motor powered Engine, two electric battery powered engines, two-foot powered carts, and two hand powered carts to ride around the scenic property.

Additionally, there was a decorated sixteen by twenty-foot O Gauge train layout to enjoy for those who preferred to “run the railroad” instead of “ride the railroad.”

It was an enjoyable autumn day and we appreciate all those who came out to participate!

September Dinner/Meeting Program 2019

Andrea McCusker — Tue, 08 Oct 2019 19:49:25 GMT

ASNE President Mark Hugel, RADM, USN (Ret), kicked off the 2019-2020 dinner/meeting program on September 18, providing an update on the state of the Society, as well as his major priorities and challenges for his two-year term and beyond. He made an impassioned plea for a focus on membership, young professionals and student outreach, driven principally through engagement at the local Section level. Executive Director Dale “Kid” Lumme was also in attendance, making a special trip from ASNE headquarters in Washington, DC for this event. Thank you both for helping us kick-start the season!

Before President Hugel spoke, Mr. Paul Siebeking was presented a special certificate of recognition. One of the four (4) ASNE TW scholarships was named for Mr. Siebeking. Additionally, Paul was acknowledged for 50 years of membership within ASNE! Paul was deeply humbled to be honored and recognized for his achievements.

Mike D’Amato, ASNE TW Programs Committee Co-Chair, gave a brief presentation of the ASNE-Sika 25th Annual Build-A-Boat Challenge held in June 2019. He thanked all those involved who helped make it a success. The net proceeds from the event (over $7,000!) went toward ASNE scholarship funds and STEM grants.

STEM Applications Due by 1-Oct 2019

Andrea McCusker — Mon, 23 Sep 2019 19:22:05 GMT

ASNE Tidewater provides financial support to schools and clubs in the Tidewater area of Virginia for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programs.

The 2019-2020 Dewitt Davis STEM Award Application will be accepted up to October 1, 2019 (for dispersion in the Fall semester), and February 1, 2020 (for dispersion in the Spring semester).

The application form is available for download here.

ASNE's mission is to advance the knowledge and practice of naval engineering in public and private applications and operations, to enhance the professionalism and well-being of members, and to promote naval engineering as a career field. The field of naval engineering can encompass naval architecture (marine, ocean, mechanical, structural, civil, environmental, aeronautical, electrical and electronic engineering), and the physical sciences.

ASNE - SIKA ULTIMATE BUILD-A-BOAT CHALLENGE: 25TH ANNIVERSARY

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 17:36:57 GMT

The 2019 ASNE-Sikaflex Ultimate Build-A-Boat Challenge took place June 8-9 at the Norfolk Harborfest at Town Point Park. We celebrated our 25th Anniversary! Special thanks to our corporate and personal sponsors. 100% of net proceeds go to fund ASNE Scholarship and STEM Programs. Here are some photos of the boat building & race and presentation of the event!

Technology, Systems & Ships 2019

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 12:00:00 GMT

The TSS program will follow the Design, Build, Sustain pattern, addressing both current and future Navy, Coast Guard and Marine Corps Programs with a heavy emphasis on Naval Engineering. Beyond the shipbuilding programs, topics such as ship modernization, weapon systems, combat systems, and C5ISR will be discussed.

For further details, more topics of interest and submission guidelines; please visit http://www.navalengineers.org/Symposia/Technology-Systems-and-Ships-2019
Questions regarding technical papers? Contact our sub-committee: tss2019@navalengineers.org

Hampton High School - Maritime Academy

Jessica Galassie — Fri, 03 May 2019 16:01:48 GMT

American Society of Naval Engineers Tidewater Section hosted the Hampton High School Maritime Academy teachers and students for dinner and listen to RADM William Galinis, USN PEO Ships discuss some challenges and future outlook of ship types. Pamela Schools and I were so grateful to all our members and guests in making the students feel welcome and showing them the diversity of the Maritime workforce. THANK YOU Phillip Thompson and Christina Kerby for your open minds and hands on teaching of our future Maritime workforce! THANK YOU Josh Farrow, Elijah Twitchell, and Shanice Cooper for being brave students and getting out of your comfort zones! hashtag#VAmaritime hashtag#usnavy hashtag#futureleaders hashtag#vocationaltraining hashtag#vocationaleducation hashtag#stem hashtag#engineers hashtag#maritime hashtag#teaching hashtag#ship hashtag#welders hashtag#digitalshipbuilding hashtag#workforce hashtag#students

Naval Engineers Journal (NEJ) Volunteer Opportunities

Sat, 16 Feb 2019 16:38:04 GMT

NEJ Editor-in-Chief Volunteer Position

The Editor-in-Chief is a volunteer position and serves as the head of the NEJ Editorial Board. ASNE Members interested in the open Editor-in-Chief position should send an email to NEJ Managing Editor Maggie O'Brien by February 15, 2019. Applicants are asked to submit a short cover letter for the consideration of the NEJ team. We hope to select the new Editor-in-Chief by March 1st.

Additional NEJ Volunteer Opportunities
If you are interested in serving as a NEJ Associate Editor, or Reviewer, in your area of technical expertise, send an email to Maggie O'Brien.

Submit a Paper to the NEJ
To submit a technical paper for the NEJ, the Society's peer-reviewed technical journal, please visit: http://mc.manuscriptcentral.com/nej

Maggie O'Brien
Managing Editor, Naval Engineers Journal
email: mobrien@navalengineers.org

ASNE National Job Board

Wed, 23 Jan 2019 19:42:51 GMT

Browse the Job Board on the ASNE National web site.

ONR seeks NDSEG reviewers

Mon, 17 Dec 2018 19:20:51 GMT

The Office of Naval Research (ONR) is looking to recruit volunteer subject matter experts to review the National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate (NDSEG) Fellowship Program applications that were received for Naval Architecture. See the details, required qualifications and sign up here:
https://www.ndsegfellowships.org/panelists

Intelligent Ships Symposium

Wed, 21 Nov 2018 18:17:28 GMT

Call for Papers

November 30, 2018 - Abstracts Due - DEADLINE EXTENDED

The Intelligent Ships Symposium is a biennial naval engineering conference that offers technical presentations, expert panels, and networking opportunities to our community of professionals. The emphasis of this year's symposium will be on recent advances in Intelligent Systems and the challenges that lie ahead for the next generation of Intelligent ships.

MegaRust 2019 - May 14-16, 2019.

Tue, 30 Oct 2018 18:31:09 GMT

MegaRust 2019 will be held at the Renaissance Portsmouth-Norfolk Waterfront Hotel May 14-16, 2019.

Learn more about the new venue, register, see who is exhibiting and sponsoring, and book your exhibit space or sponsorship at http://www.megarust.org .

ASNE October Professional Development Update

Fri, 19 Oct 2018 18:59:57 GMT

Interested in furthering your professional development without leaving your office? ASNE's on-demand learning offers you a comprehensive library of technical and non-technical webinars to broaden your expertise. Best of all, many of these webinars are free for ASNE-members! Check out the October addition to our on-demand learning offerings "Global Shipbuilding Executive Summit (GSES) Lecture #1: Back to Basics with Peter Jaquith" at: http://www.navalengineers.org/Resources/Product-Info/productcd/GSESWebinar1 .

We Co-hosted a Mariners' Museum Reception

Thu, 11 Oct 2018 15:06:41 GMT

ASNE-TW co-hosted the May, 2018 Maritime Night at the Museum event at The Mariners’ Museum and Park in Newport News to celebrate the opening of the exhibition, Answering America’s Call: Newport News in World War I. The exhibit commemorates the 100th anniversary of America’s involvement in the “war to end all wars.” The evening was a terrific celebration of and with the Hampton Roads Maritime Community.

Combat Systems Symposium 2018

Tue, 02 Oct 2018 17:43:39 GMT

The Flagship Section of the American Society of Naval Engineers (ASNE) invites you to:
Combat Systems Symposium 2018:

Combat Systems: Achieving Agility to Deliver Lethality and Maximize Readiness

NEW VENUE:

Sheraton Pentagon City Hotel

900 S Orme St.

Arlington, VA

See details at

Combat Systems Symposium 2018

Fleet Maintenance and Modernization Symposium 2018

Mon, 01 Oct 2018 15:03:26 GMT

Excellent MACC article in Work Boat eMag

Mon, 10 Sep 2018 16:10:49 GMT

See page 36 for an excellent article on the Multi-Agency Craft Conference:

ASNE Student Scholarships

Thu, 28 Jun 2018 19:06:54 GMT

Congratulations to the 2018-2019 Scholarship Recipients!

ASNE Delaware Valley Section Scholarship
Mr. Demostenes Santiago
Pennsylvania State University
Civil Engineering
Undergraduate

ASNE Flagship Section Scholarship
Mr. Julian Fraize
Stevens Institute of Technology
Engineering, Concentration in Naval Engineering
Graduate

MIDN Richard Kang
United States Naval Academy
Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering
Undergraduate

ASNE Headquarters Restricted Funds Mr. David Eidelman
Florida Institute of Technology
Ocean Engineering
Graduate

MIDN 2/C Sean Golhke
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Nuclear Engineering
Undergraduate

BMT John J. Nachtsheim Scholarship
Ms. Sarah Stretch
Webb Institute
Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering
Undergraduate

ASNE San Diego Section Scholarship
MIDN 1/C Aaron Bongco
University of Arizona
Chemical Engineering
Undergraduate

Mr. Alexander Gonzalez
Florida Atlantic University
Ocean Engineering
Graduate

ASNE Tidewater Section Admiral David Donohue Scholarship
MIDN 2/C Daniel Vedova
Carnegie Mellon University
Mechanical Engineering
Undergraduate

ASNE Tidewater Section James Pitt Scholarship
Mr. Todd Kingston
Purdue University
Mechanical Engineering
Doctorate

ASNE Tidewater Section Captain Joseph Yurso Scholarship
MIDN Patrick Leary
Virginia Tech
Aerospace Engineering
Undergraduate

James A. Lisnyk Fund
Ms. Taylor Campbell
Webb Institute
Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering
Undergraduate

ASNE Student Awards

Thu, 28 Jun 2018 19:05:06 GMT

Did you know ASNE gives student awards for outstanding performance in particular areas of naval engineering? 2018 recipients include:

U.S. Naval Academy: Midshipman Rachel Fortner, USN
U.S. Coast Guard Academy: Cadet Richard "Gabe" Zogby, USCG
U.S. Merchant Marine Academy: Midshipman Patrick McGuinness
MIT Brand Award: LCDR Daniel D Huynh, USN
Senior Officer School Material Readiness Course: CDR Wade Smith and LCDR William Fensterer

Congratulations - and best wishes as you move toward your next duty assignments!