Virginia Digital Maritime Center

06/03/2026

School's almost out for summer! But VDMC is still making waves in the classroom and inspiring the next generation of maritime professionals!

Curriculum Coordinator Jennifer Renne spent the day at Smithfield Middle School, where students participated in The Incredible Bulk activity as part of their maritime studies unit. The Incredible Bulk activity is a hands-on STEM and maritime outreach activity that teaches students about ship bulkheads and careers before using 3D printed parts to construct their own bulkhead while reading physical and digital blueprints.

Each student had a great time and even walked away with some VDMC swag to remember the experience!

We're proud to help spark curiosity about maritime careers and connect students with the many opportunities our industry has to offer.

05/29/2026

ICYMI: Check out this awesome video Old Dominion University made about this year's Digital Ship Challenge!

We hosted 38 high school teams at Old Dominion University for the 3rd annual Digital Ship Challenge! From underwater navigation and sonar testing to custom p...

05/26/2026

We are so appreciative of Old Dominion University News for this great story and thoughtful coverage of our 2026 Digital Ship Challenge!

We truly appreciate the opportunity to showcase this program and highlight the incredible students, educators, and industry partners helping inspire the next generation of maritime leaders. Check out the video too!

“Inspiring the Next Generation of Maritime Leaders”: https://www.odu.edu/article/inspiring-the-next-generation-of-maritime-leaders

05/25/2026

In memory of many, in honor of all.

This Memorial Day, we remember and honor the courageous men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

Their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

05/22/2026

Today, we celebrate National Maritime Day and recognize the vital role the maritime industry plays in powering our economy, strengthening national security, and connecting communities around the world.

From shipbuilders and mariners to engineers, educators, and innovators, we honor the individuals who keep the maritime industry moving forward every day.

At the Virginia Digital Maritime Center (VDMC), we are proud to support the next generation of maritime technology, workforce development, and innovation right here in Hampton Roads.

Happy National Maritime Day! ⚓🌊

05/21/2026

Thanks for the shoutout Chesapeake Public Schools and Grassfield High School ! And congrats to all of Grassfield's teams who participated in the Challenge this year!

Grassfield High’s STEM students made serious waves at the Virginia Digital Maritime Center's "Digital Ship Challenge" last month!:

Grassfield High’s STEM students made serious waves at the Virginia Digital Maritime Center's "Digital Ship Challenge" last month! 🤖Special congratulations to these winning teams from the Programming Strand coached by Mr. Jason Gabel:- FIRST PLACE in Tech Division: The Cyber W...

05/20/2026

05/20/2026

Check out our 2026 Digital Ship Challenge video recap! Like and subscribe too for any updates!

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05/18/2026

We had such a great time yesterday at the "Weld It, Build It, Sail It!" event presented by Nauticus, Hampton Roads Workforce Council, and the Hampton Roads Maritime Training System - HRMTS.

We had a wonderful time connecting with families and to help inspire the next generation of professionals. Whether it’s welding, building, sailing, repairing, designing, or engineering, this event was a great way to celebrate the maritime industry and for attendees to explore, connect, and imagine what is possible in the amazing world of maritime!

While at the event, we presented the First Place Winners of each division of the 2026 Digital Ship Challenge with a banner to hang up at their schools!

First place winner of the Systems Division was Team GOATS from Smithfield High School.

First place winner of the Tech Division was Team The Cyber Waves from Grassfield High School .

First place winner of the Design Division was Team USS Pack from Smithfield High School.

Congratulations to all the winners!

05/18/2026

VDMC hosted the Virginia Maritime Association Maritime Leadership Certification Program cohort last week for a day of learning, collaboration, and exploration. Participants gained insight into leadership development from Executive Director Mark Whitney as he talked about the many facets of being a good leader from his years of experience.

The 25 participants, from all aspects of maritime and logistics industries, toured Research Assistant Professor/Workforce Development Lead Dr. Jessica M. Johnson's lab to learn about her work advancing maritime innovation and expanding K-Gray educational opportunities. The group then spent time in the SeaLab, participating in hands-on maritime activities such as the Supply Chain Showdown simulation with Curriculum Coordinator Jennifer Renne.

In this interactive exercise, participants operated a crane to load cargo onto a trailer, navigated a truck safely through road obstacles, and delivered the cargo to its final destination. The simulation offers a fun and engaging way for students to learn about supply chain operations, logistics, and maritime transportation.

We hope the cohort had a fantastic time exploring leadership, innovation, and the exciting hands-on educational initiatives at VDMC that are preparing the next generation of maritime professionals!