► The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard STEM Outreach Program supports FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition in Science and Technology) and VEX robotics programs by connecting Shipyard employees to serve as coaches, mentors and competition judges. Participation in these programs is proven to engage and inspire students to pursue education and careers in STEM-related fields. Additionally, these team-based programs provide a space encouraging problem-solving, teamwork, creativity and leadership.

► Many mentors contribute on a weekly basis during competition season, support the team with subject matter expertise on an as needed basis, and volunteer to support competitions on a one-time basis. 

► A tour of Portsmouth Naval Shipyard can be a great opportunity for students to get a glimpse of the daily activities of the shipyard, observe some of the career opportunities that exist in STEM-related fields, and learn about the shipyard’s long and fascinating history. Tours are intended for high school and university students. A team of our experienced engineers, technicians, chemists, tradespersons, and Navy personnel lead students through a variety of presentations and some hands-on activities.

► A STEM Showcase is a day of workshops and presentations intended to exhibit real-life applications of STEM and a glimpse of careers on the shipyard to high school students. These workshops incorporate hands-on activities to engage and excite students. The event typically occurs during a regular school day at the hosting school. Presenters are experts in their field and are familiar with sharing their knowledge with students.

► SeaPerch is an innovative program which leads students through the building and testing of a small, underwater remotely operated vehicle (ROV). The SeaPerch program provides students with a hands-on learning experience which incorporates robotics, engineering, science, and mathematics.

► Curiosity, creativity and a desire to understand the world around us are traits that come naturally to kids. These also happen to be great attributes for STEM professionals. Learning technical content and skills is vitally important. When this learning is tangible and connected to the real world, the impacts can be profound.

► Portsmouth Naval Shipyard volunteers alongside teachers assist students through three units which can be taught in an in-school (as complement to existing curricula) or out-of-school setting. A final field trip to a pool allows the students to maneuver their ROVs through obstacle courses and recover objects from the bottom of the pool.

► “STEM in a Box” workshops consist of hour-long, STEM-related, hands-on activities that can be done in any classroom. Instructions are broken down like a lesson plan and include critical thinking questions and learning goals.

► STEM-in-a-Box activities are scalable to any age group Pre-K through High School. Portsmouth Naval Shipyard employees bring their real-world work experience to life as they lead students through fun and engaging challenges and activities.

► Portsmouth Naval Shipyard’s STEM Engagement Trailer transports a pop-up style event to area high schools and colleges. This full day STEM event showcases up to 24 demonstrations highlighting the cutting edge technology and skills used in our production shops.   

► Tutor.com/military is a program that provides on-demand, online tutoring and homework help at no cost to eligible service members, civilian personnel and their dependents.  With live, expert tutors available 24/7, military connected students can receive academic help at their moment of need-anywhere they have an internet connection. 

► To learn more, please visit Tutor.com/military.