University of West Florida students are making waves in marine robotics education. Four electrical and computer engineering students recently partnered with the Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division to develop an innovative RoboBoat kit designed to spark high school students’ interest in STEM fields.
Details
Under the guidance of Dr. Jeff McGuirk and in collaboration with Dr. Damion Dunlap’s STEM outreach vision, seniors Ashley Schnaible, Heather Sasser, David Laird, and Xavier Frank tackled the challenge of creating an affordable, accessible robotics platform. Their mission: make marine robotics engaging and attainable for high school students.
- “This project gave us the opportunity to explore multiple ways of constructing a functioning RoboBoat kit using materials that students could obtain rather easily,” explained Schnaible. “It also gave our team the opportunity to be giant kids ourselves, having fun with the build.”
After extensive testing and design refinements throughout Fall 2024, the team developed a creative solution using 3D-printed PLA filament components and multiple Flex Seal layers for waterproofing. The final design functions like a sophisticated Lego set, complete with thrusters, waterproof electronics housing, and RC remote communication capabilities.
Expanding Impact Beyond Campus
The project’s success extends beyond UWF’s campus. This summer, Dr. Dunlap is working with paid high school interns at the Naval Surface Warfare Center, applying lessons learned from the UWF project to build additional boats and further expand STEM engagement opportunities.