NSWC Indian Head Division Sparks STEM Passion at HITS Expo | Inspiring Future Innovators
Employees from NSWC Indian Head Division dedicated their weekend to inspiring future scientists and engineers at the ninth annual HITS Expo in Waldorf, Maryland. The event offered students hands-on experiences, including an interactive fighter pilot ejection seat and explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) robots, showcasing how technology enhances safety in real-world scenarios. Josh Phillips, NSWC IHD’s public affairs officer, emphasized how the expo allows students to see the exciting possibilities of STEM careers.
As a major employer in Charles County, NSWC IHD plays a vital role in advancing cutting-edge technology developed by local professionals. Amanda Wilmot, the division’s STEM coordinator, highlighted how STEM careers go beyond science and math—they shape the future through innovation and problem-solving. The event also featured the SeaPerch underwater robotics competition, giving students a hands-on introduction to engineering and design.
NSWC IHD, a division of Naval Sea Systems Command, leads in ordnance, energetics, and EOD solutions, focusing on research, development, and manufacturing. Events like the HITS Expo help bridge the gap between students and real-world STEM careers, igniting curiosity and ambition for the future.
NSWC Indian Head Division Sparks STEM Passion at HITS Expo | Inspiring Future Innovators
Over the weekend of March 22, the Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head Division (NSWC IHD) brought excitement and hands-on learning to students and families at the ninth annual HITS Expo in Waldorf, Maryland. The event, blending history, industry, technology, and science, provided a platform for NSWC IHD employees to ignite curiosity in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) careers while showcasing the groundbreaking work happening at their facility in Indian Head.
Interactive Exhibits Bring STEM to Life
One of the most talked-about attractions was a real fighter pilot ejection seat, which allowed attendees to experience firsthand how pilots safely escape aircraft during emergencies. Students eagerly lined up to try the simulator, gaining insight into the physics and engineering behind lifesaving military technology. Nearby, explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) robots stole the show as kids and adults alike took turns maneuvering the machines through obstacle courses. These demonstrations illustrated how cutting-edge robotics protect military personnel by handling hazardous materials from a safe distance.
Josh Phillips, NSWC IHD’s public affairs officer, emphasized the value of connecting with the community: “The energy from the students is contagious. Events like this let us peel back the curtain on what we do at Indian Head and show how STEM careers can be both impactful and thrilling.”
Empowering the Next Generation
As a major employer in Charles County, NSWC IHD plays a vital role in developing advanced technologies—many of which are designed by local residents. Amanda Wilmot, the division’s STEM coordinator, stressed the broader purpose of their work: “STEM isn’t just about equations or lab coats. It’s about solving real problems and creating a safer, smarter future. When students operate our robots or ask questions about explosives safety, they start to see themselves as future problem-solvers.”
The HITS Expo merged Charles County Public Schools’ history and science fairs with interactive STEM exhibits, creating a dynamic space for learning. One standout feature was the SeaPerch underwater robotics competition, where students engineered their own remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) to navigate aquatic challenges. This activity taught teamwork, engineering principles, and creativity—key skills for careers at NSWC IHD.
Community Connections and Career Pathways
Beyond the exciting technology, the event underscored NSWC IHD’s commitment to fostering local talent. By showcasing careers in energetics, ordnance development, and robotics, the division aims to inspire students to pursue STEM education and eventually join its workforce. “Many of our engineers and scientists grew up right here in Charles County,” Wilmot added. “Seeing their excitement reminds us why community outreach matters—it plants seeds for tomorrow’s innovations.”
NSWC IHD specializes in researching and manufacturing technologies that protect military personnel, including explosives detection systems, bomb-disposal tools, and advanced propulsion systems. Their participation in the expo highlighted how these innovations begin with curiosity and education.
A Glimpse Into the Future
For attendees, the expo was more than a day of fun—it was a window into potential careers. Parents watched as their children engaged with engineers, asking questions about robotics and chemistry. High school students left with brochures about internships, while younger kids proudly displayed stickers declaring, “Future Scientist.”
The SeaPerch competition, in particular, demonstrated how classroom lessons translate into real-world applications. Teams of students collaborated to build ROVs capable of retrieving objects underwater, mirroring the challenges faced by professionals in maritime industries. “It’s amazing to see their creativity,” said an NSWC IHD volunteer. “These kids aren’t just learning—they’re inventing.”
Building a Legacy of Innovation
NSWC Indian Head Division’s involvement in the HITS Expo reflects its mission to support both national security and community growth. By investing in STEM outreach, the division ensures a pipeline of skilled workers ready to tackle emerging threats and technological challenges.
As the event wrapped up, Phillips summed up its impact: “When a student’s eyes light up after piloting a robot or testing a mini explosion, we know we’ve made a difference. That spark of curiosity could lead to the next big breakthrough in safety or sustainability.”
For Charles County, the expo reinforced the importance of nurturing STEM passion early—and for NSWC IHD, it was a reminder that the future of innovation lies in the hands of inspired young minds.