How to build a ship in Rockville Centre

Posted Wednesday, May 23, 2012 7:00 pm

Members of South Side High School’s Engineering Club recently visited The Webb Institute, which has prepared the nation’s shipbuilders for more than a century. From left, were science teacher Todd Russo, Chris Licado, Eric Harris, Samantha Griswold, Connor Bogue, Matt Giovanello, Patrick Edell, Max Kramer, Adam Moss, Thomas Ryan, Chris Connely, Alex Rosser, Megan Connely, Sean Lenihan, Mairead Milan, Nassir Jones, Justin Silverman, David Slone, Matthew Aliotta and Webb Institute Dean Rick Neilson.

Courtesy Lauren Moss

Students in South Side High School’s Engineering Club visited The Webb Institute to prepare for the “Anything That Floats Race” on June 3 at Beekman Beach in Oyster Bay.

With their teacher Todd Russo, the students toured the institute, an elite engineering college specializing in naval architecture and marine engineering, founded by prominent shipbuilder William H. Webb. South Side students met with the institute’s dean, Rick Neilson, and Webb students Samantha Griswold, Chris Licado, Eric Harris and Nolan Conway, who assisted them in organizing their ideas.

The South Side students divided into groups to present their ideas as they discussed the Archimedes Principle and vessel dimensions, along with other calculations. They will begin the process of searching for recyclable materials and designing and building their boat or flotation device.

Last year South Side competed and placed third in the competition, which pits them against other Long Island schools and individuals who are up for the challenge. To win, they must navigate the course as quickly as possible and be as creative and colorful as possible. This year they will compete in the senior division, and hope to take first place.

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