Northrop Grumman Engineering and Science Student Design Showcase Set for April 1 at Florida Tech

MELBOURNE, FLA.—In an annual extravaganza of achievement, Florida Institute of Technology College of Engineering and College of Science students will display their finished design projects on Friday, April 1, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. More than 100 projects will make up the 2011 Northrop Grumman Engineering & Science Student Design Showcase at the Charles and Ruth Clemente Center. The community is invited to browse the student work.

For more than four decades, Florida Tech engineering and science students have been required to complete a hands-on, detailed senior project before graduation. In 2009, a generous $1 million endowment gift from Northrop Grumman Corporation provided continuing support for the students’ work. Also, Northrop Grumman officials will present a special “Best in Show” prize.

This year’s engineering projects include a submersible aircraft, human-powered vehicle, wave energy projects, a morphing wing, concrete canoe, steel bridge, several robots and a device to prevent drunk driving. From the Department of Marine and Environmental Systems, students will exhibit posters to display their research in such areas as oceanography, environmental science, and meteorology.

 Science projects include posters on climate change from the Amazon to the Antarctic; snakes trained to perform complex tasks for rewards—nervous system function study; and rapid and inexpensive chemical synthesis of fish pheromones for use in aquaculture.

The student project simulates a real-world work environment and hands-on research to challenge students in a variety of areas. Students apply theory, think creatively and develop practical skills, such as teamwork, professionalism and leadership.

The Clemente Center is located on University Boulevard near the corner of Babcock Street. For more information, call (321) 674-8020.