Digital Ship Challenge

Are you ready to witness the next generation of maritime innovation?

The Digital Ship Challenge is an annual high school competition that connects students with the Hampton Roads’ maritime industry through hands-on, career-connected challenges. Students work in teams to apply technical knowledge, collaboration, problem-solving, and professional skills while exploring real-world maritime careers.

The 2027 Digital Ship Challenge features four divisions – Design, Skilled Trades, Technology, and Supply Chain. Each division introduces students to a different area of the maritime industry while providing opportunities to work with industry mentors, engage with maritime professionals, and develop skills connected to future education and careers.

Competition Day will take place on Thursday, March 18, 2027, at Nauticus in Norfolk, Virginia. Official 2027 Division Guides and the DSC Change Log are available on this page. Participating teams should use their designated Google Drive folders for additional division-specific materials and resources.

Team Mentors, in coordination with their respective teacher, work directly with a student team. Similar to a coach, mentors apply their personal experience and skill to assist students with understanding maritime-related concepts as they apply to the design, construction, and performance of their vessel or system. By participating, industry professionals help inspire the next generation and strengthen the future maritime workforce.

Maritime Connect is an opportunity for local maritime industries and organizations to meet with high school students interested in the maritime ecosystem. This is your chance to engage with these bright and motivated students who will make up tomorrow’s workforce. Maritime Connect will be held in December, 2026.

Sponsors enable student teams to participate and compete in the Challenge. Sponsorships directly support Challenge materials, event experiences, meals, shirts, and awards while providing recognition for your company throughout the Challenge. New this year: sponsorship levels.

To get involved, click HERE.