What began as a submarine sketch on a whiteboard in 2022 became a reality for Oregon State University’s human-powered submarine team, Team Castorea, in their inaugural run at the 18th International Submarine Races (ISR 18) in West Bethesda, Maryland.
The club was founded in 2022 by Liam Vincent, a mechanical engineering student and long-time participant in the Kids Into Discovering Science (KIDS) team. KIDS is a Maryland-based nonprofit that introduces K-12 students to hands-on STEM and engineering principles through submarine design. Drawing from his background, Vincent pitched the club idea during his freshman year at OSU, took initiative on the logistical and administrative work, and laid the groundwork for what would become a two-year student-led design-build project.
“He was fully willing to take on the brunt of what it takes to start a club,” April Martus, an OSU engineering student and member of Team Castorea, said. “He has done a lot to get the club off its feet.”
The team faced classic early-phase challenges: no budget, funding, sponsors or organizational base. With no prior base to build from, the team began to recruit members and eventually secured funding, becoming recognized as an official OSU club. They spent 10 months in research and development, using ISR design guides to prototype and manufacture their submarine during fall 2024.
Despite limited in-water testing—only about 12 feet of propulsion achieved in a controlled pool environment—and finalizing logistics just weeks before the event, the team arrived at ISR 18 with a working system.
Their goal was simple: complete one race and cross the finish line.
On Day 1 of ISR 18, they did just that, with April Martus piloting their sub across the finish line in its very first race.
“It was really special,” Martus said. “We knew it wasn't usual for teams to finish on their first try on the first day.”
Most of the founding members will graduate this year or next, but their legacy has established a foundation for growth for future OSU sub teams to follow. Team Castorea has proven what’s possible with dedication, teamwork, and a clear vision.