Drexel University’s College of Engineering has entered into an Education Partnership Agreement with the United States Department of the Navy, Naval Surface Warfare Center, Philadelphia Division (NSWCPD). Authorized by the Secretary of Defense, EPAs are sought with educational institutions throughout the United States that are dedicated to improving science, mathematics and engineering education. The NSWCPD and College of Engineering recognized the opportunity to work jointly to provide Drexel engineering students access to military staff, and unique facilities and equipment, particularly in their primary research area of surface ship and undersea vehicle machinery components and systems.
“The NSWCPD provides a laboratory experience that encourages interest in the sciences and engineering, particularly among students who may be considering a future career in naval machinery research and development,” says Chika Nwankpa, PhD, department head of the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department at Drexel.
The NSWCPD is responsible for the machinery systems core equity of the Ship and Ship Systems Product Area for the United States Navy and serves as a central point for academia and industry to join forces with Navy technical experts to develop solutions to needs in naval machinery. Its key functions include research, design, development, shipboard and land-based test and evaluation, acquisition support, in-service engineering, Fleet engineering, integrated logistics support and concepts and overall life cycle engineering.
“This partnership is in the best interest of our students,” continues Nwankpa. “The interaction they have with the staff at the NSWCPD will enhance their academic and professional experience, always a high priority at the College of Engineering.”