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������Sherry DiBari

Daniel Erdogan and Rob Stuart didn't hesitate to jump into waist-deep water to make last-minute adjustments to the "Barracuda," a 14-foot electrically-propelled Jon boat, during the  (PEP) competition.

As J.T. Webner, a mechanical engineering major, steered the craft into the Elizabeth River, Erdogan shouted "Unless the motor stops, you don't!"

Webner made it six laps before the engine overheated, securing a third-place finish for �鶹��ý, with  and Washington College claiming the top two positions.

This year's competition was held in coordination with the American Society of Naval Engineers (ASNE)  (MAAC) at Portsmouth City Park.

"The event is very beneficial for students who get to display their boats to potential sponsors, and hirers," said Erdogan, a mechanical engineering technology major and president of ASNE's .

Erdogan, who spent many hours working on the boat, acknowledged Larry Price, an �鶹��ý graduate student, for his assistance. Price began working with the PEP race as an undergraduate student. "He has been a loyal partner and a good friend throughout our history working on this project," Erdogan said.

Erdogan also noted the contributions of Rob Stuart, a graduate student in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. Stuart played a crucial role in ensuring the battery system's reliability and assisting with last-minute repairs.

During the competition - which is open to manned or unmanned vessels operating with an electric propulsion system - contestants are tasked with completing five 1-mile laps.

This year's registered teams included: University of Connecticut, , Stevens Institute, University of Rhode Island, William and Mary, Texas A&M, Florida Atlantic University, Princeton University, Washington College, North Carolina State University, �鶹��ý, Wake Forest University, Catholic University and Christopher Newport University.

Erdogan, who has worked with ASNE and the PEP competition for several years, cites industry connections as one of the great benefits of the program.

Erdogan, who has been involved with ASNE and the PEP competition for several years, highlights the program's industry connections as one of its major advantages.

"The networking opportunities ­- not only for internships and work - but for �鶹��ý recognition, is limitless," he said. "We are also surrounded by the largest maritime industry in the East Coast. Connecting the industry to �鶹��ý not only benefits our boat with sponsors but connects �鶹��ý students to an industry looking for new engineers."