Investing In The Future

We believe that innovation doesn’t just happen in boardrooms and research labs—it begins in classrooms, workshops, and competitions where young minds are given the tools, challenges, and mentorship to explore the frontiers of technology. As a hub for advanced technology and defense innovation, we see the importance of investing in STEM education firsthand. It is not just about preparing students for careers; it is about nurturing the creative problem-solvers, engineers, and visionaries who will shape the future. This is why we are deeply committed to hands-on learning programs like FIRST Robotics, SeaPerch, and the Pre-Engineering Program sponsored by NAVSEA — each of which provides unique, immersive experiences designed to spark curiosity, foster resilience, and develop real-world skills.

Photo: Lisa Ferdinando

Walking into the FATHOMWERX Lab during a FIRST Robotics Competition is like stepping into the future. The energy is palpable—students huddle over workstations, making last-minute tweaks to their robots, troubleshooting mechanical issues, and strategizing with teammates. This competition is more than a game; it is an intense, high-stakes engineering challenge that pushes students to think critically, collaborate effectively, and develop solutions under pressure.

FIRST Robotics is designed to mimic real-world engineering projects, where teams must not only build a functioning robot but also navigate time constraints, resource limitations, and unexpected challenges. Each year’s competition presents a new problem to solve, requiring students to apply programming, mechanics, and problem-solving skills in a fast-paced environment. But beyond the technical aspects, what makes FIRST Robotics truly remarkable is the sense of community it fosters. Teams help each other, mentors guide students through challenges, and young engineers develop a lifelong passion for innovation. These competitions serve as launchpads for careers in technology, offering students a glimpse into the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.

Photo: Dana White

While FIRST Robotics teaches students how to build machines for land, SeaPerch takes innovation beneath the surface. This program introduces students to underwater robotics by challenging them to design and build their own remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). Through this hands-on experience, students learn the fundamentals of buoyancy, propulsion, and hydrodynamics—all critical components of maritime and naval engineering.

SeaPerch immerses students in real-world problem-solving. They must consider how materials react in water, how to balance weight and efficiency, and how to navigate their ROVs through underwater obstacle courses. These projects simulate challenges faced by oceanographers, marine biologists, and defense engineers, giving students a firsthand look at how robotics can be used in environmental conservation, disaster response, and national security. The program ignites curiosity and encourages students to think creatively about the possibilities of underwater technology, preparing them for careers in a field that is increasingly important in today’s world.

Photo: Jhon Parsons

At FATHOMWERX, we recognize that the leap from classroom theory to real-world application can be daunting. That is why the Pre-Engineering Program, presented by NAVSEA, is designed to give students hands-on experience with the tools, processes, and problem-solving approaches used in professional engineering environments. By engaging with mentors, working with advanced prototyping equipment, and tackling real design challenges, students gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be an engineer.

This program is not about memorization or standardized tests—it is about learning by doing. Students get firsthand exposure to CAD software, 3D printing, and rapid prototyping, giving them practical skills that go far beyond textbooks. They work alongside industry professionals, gaining insights into the complexities of designing and manufacturing innovative solutions. By participating in real-world engineering challenges, they not only build technical expertise but also develop problem-solving resilience, adaptability, and confidence.

For students eager to immerse themselves in cutting-edge technology and defense innovation, the FATHOMWERX Summer Internship Program offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic environment. Over the course of the summer, interns work on various projects around the lab to support daily operations and complete different projects. This program provides an invaluable bridge between classroom learning and industry application, equipping students with the knowledge, experience, and connections to pursue careers in STEM fields. Many students walk away from this program with a deeper understanding of potential career paths and the ways in which they can make an impact in their local community. 

A great example of a student, James Penrose, who excelled in stem and is now building his own company in the dual use technology space.

Another great opportunity for students is the Matter Labs Internship Program. Aimed at high school students looking to take their STEM education even further, this internship program provides an invaluable opportunity to gain real-world experience in the FATHOMWERX Lab. This internship connects students with industry mentors, exposing them to cutting-edge projects and hands-on problem-solving. By bridging the gap between education and hands-on experience, this program empowers students to apply their knowledge in meaningful ways, setting them on a trajectory toward success in high-tech industries.

The world is changing at an unprecedented rate, and the need for skilled problem-solvers has never been greater. Investing in STEM education is not just about preparing students for future jobs; it is about empowering them to tackle the challenges of tomorrow. Whether it is designing sustainable technologies, exploring the depths of our oceans, or developing next-generation defense systems, today’s students will be the ones leading the charge.

By supporting programs like FIRST Robotics, SeaPerch, and our Pre-Engineering initiative, we are helping to cultivate a generation of thinkers and doers. We are giving students the tools and opportunities to innovate, experiment, and push boundaries. And most importantly, we are showing them that the future is theirs to shape.

We are more than just a hub for technology—we are a community dedicated to fostering the next wave of innovators. As we continue to expand our STEM initiatives, we invite educators, industry professionals, and students alike to join us in this mission. Whether through mentorship, sponsorship, or hands-on collaboration, we all have a role to play in inspiring and equipping the next generation of engineers and problem-solvers.

If you are interested in getting involved or learning more about our STEM programs, we would love to hear from you. The future starts now, and it starts with us all working together.