Researchers from Naval Health Research Center (NHRC) set up an impressive exhibit on Broadway Pier, participating in San Diego Fleet Week activities, sharing knowledge, demonstrating technology and testing skills for the many curious visitors to the Qualcomm Innovation Zone experience.
This year’s Fleet Week included Student STEM Day for local science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) students, Oct. 25. The Innovation Zone, set up on the Broadway Pier, was designed to introduce to children of all ages, the advanced and innovative technology and research of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard.
“On day one, more than 2,400 San Diego area STEM students engaged with our scientists in mini experiments, question and answer games, and just seemed to have a lot of fun,” said Lt. Cmdr. Stephen Eggan, NHRC deputy chief scientist.
At the kick-off evening reception, Oct. 24, invited dignitaries stopped by NHRC’s exhibits to meet the scientists and learn more about NHRC research capabilities.
“This was our first time exhibiting on the pier, and it was inspiring to see such interest in our research, especially with the youth on STEM Day and throughout the week. We look forward to coming back next year, and further engagement with fleet week organizers,” said Capt. Marshall Monteville, NHRC commanding officer.
Fleet Week San Diego, an annual event in San Diego for more than 20 years, gave NHRC scientists the opportunity to introduce their varied scientific projects and share with the public the invaluable work being done by and for the military.
The NHRC mission is to focus on the unique health needs of our nation’s warfighters and military families by conducting cutting-edge research and development. NHRC’s team of distinguished scientists and researchers consists of active duty service members, federal civilian employees and contract professionals, whose expertise includes physiology, microbiology, psychology, epidemiology, and biomedical engineering.