Junior Ship Repair Challenge

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The Virginia Ship Repair Foundation (VSRF) presents the Junior Ship Repair Challenge (formerly known as the Digital Innovation Competition), an annual STEM-based competition that introduces middle school students to the ship repair industry through problem-solving, research, and design. Aligned with Virginia's Standards of Learning (SOLs), the challenge reinforces classroom concepts while providing real-world applications in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Winning teams earn cash prizes for their schools while gaining a greater understanding of the rewarding career opportunities available in Hampton Roads' ship repair industry.

In a nutshell, school teams will:

  1. Research challenges and careers within the ship repair industry
  2. Brainstorm innovative solutions to selected industry challenge that improves upon an existing design or structure
  3. Use computer-aided design software (CAD) to create a digital model of the proposed solution
  4. Create a physical protype of the solution using the digital model
  5. Prepare a 10-15 page design portfolio outlining the research, brainstorming, and design process
  6. Give a 6-8 minute oral presentation on the final solution to a panel of industry experts on Competition Day! 

What do students get out of participating?

  • Learn new technical skills using CAD software
  • Develop team building skills to complete the project
  • Learn how to utilize Project Time Lines to meet deadlines
  • Learn about careers and the ship repair history of Hampton Roads
  • Prizes, awards and more!

Teams will receive the following:

  • Team competition t-shirt
  • Goodie bag with snacks & additional items
  • An assigned industry mentor to provide guidance and support
  • Lunch for up to six team members and one team leader on Competition Day

Winning Teams earn cash prizes for their school!

For further information on the Junior Ship Repair Challenge, or any other valuable VSRF initiatives, please contact Anika Clickener at AClickener@VirginiaShipRepair.org or by calling the VSRA office at (757) 233-7034.

 

2026 Ship Repair Digital Innovation Competition Sponsors:

PLATINUM SPONSORS
   

 

GOLD SPONSORS

 

 

SILVER SPONSORS