Photo By Corum Byers | Erica Plath, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Sustainment) gives a keynote...... read more read more
By Alisha Tyer, NSWC Carderock Division Public Affairs
BETHESDA, Md. – Naval Surface Warfare Center, Carderock Division commemorated Engineers Week on Feb. 18, 2025 with an enterprise-wide event, themed “Design Your Future.”
The event, held in Carderock’s Raye Montague Center, featured keynote addresses, an open house, and a poster session.
Established in 1951 by the National Society of Professional Engineers, Engineers Week promotes science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education and honors the contributions of engineers and technicians. This year's theme, “Design Your Future," highlighted the pivotal role of engineering in advancing naval innovation and readiness and encouraged professionals to innovate and address global challenges with ingenuity.
“"It’s both a call to action and a celebration,” said Dr. Paul Lara, Carderock’s Chief Engineer.
Carderock’s Technical Director Larry Tarasek, who is set to retire, opened the keynote session by reflecting on his career journey from earning a mechanical engineering degree to supporting the Navy mission for decades. He highlighted the division’s recent contributions to critical Navy programs, including total ship survivability trials, hydrodynamic testing and autonomous systems research, emphasizing that the work of Navy engineers continues to shape the fleet’s future. "It’s outstanding to see how we use our engineering background to support the Navy’s mission every day," he added.
Dr. Martin Irvine, Executive Director at Naval Surface Warfare Center Headquarters, underscored the importance of strategic thinking in engineering. He highlighted the need for embracing change and structuring approaches to innovation that lead to lasting solutions, reinforcing the necessity of forward-thinking leadership to drive technological advancements.
Erica Plath, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Sustainment), encouraged seizing opportunities and embracing change. Referencing the trailblazing naval engineer and auditorium’s namesake, Raye Montague, she urged, “If you have an idea, share it. Montague believed in new technology before it was widely accepted. When her opportunity came, she delivered — designing the Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate in just 19 hours. That was game-changing. That’s the mentality we need. The opportunity is now to innovate, grow, and keep the Navy at the forefront."
Christopher Miller, Executive Director at Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), highlighted the opportunities that abound in the midst today’s complexities, emphasizing the importance of strategic navigation to drive resilience and progress.
Dr. Elissa Trueman, Carderock’s Chief Technology Officer, reinforced the importance of innovation and resilience in engineering. “Persistence is key,” she said. “First, in pushing through obstacles, and second, in continuously seeking new solutions.”
Post-keynote, attendees engaged in the Engineers Week Poster Session and Open House. Exhibits showcased cutting-edge projects, with subject matter experts discussing their work's impact on Navy capabilities. The session provided a unique opportunity for engineers across divisions to connect, exchange ideas, and showcase the innovative work taking place at Carderock.
Engineers Week wrapped up with an emphasis on innovation, adaptability, and the future of naval engineering. Speakers challenged attendees to take ownership of their role in shaping the Navy’s technological landscape, reinforcing the “Design Your Future” theme. The event highlighted engineering’s critical impact on advancing a resilient and mission-ready fleet, with Carderock continuing its commitment to fostering excellence and driving future breakthroughs.
| Date Taken: | 02.20.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 02.21.2025 14:19 |
| Story ID: | 491120 |
| Location: | WEST BETHESDA, MARYLAND, US |
| Web Views: | 20 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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