Anchors & Ornaments

Description: Celebrate the season with ASNE-TW as we drop anchor for a night of holiday cheer, maritime camaraderie, and community spirit. Enjoy festive hors d’oeuvres, seasonal cocktails, and plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow engineers, industry leaders, and friends.
We’re thrilled to feature emerging talent from our regional student PEP (Promote Electronic Propulsion) teams at this Holiday Social !!
Ben Gettier and the students of Longwood University’s STEM Center will be joining us with their student-built boat, ready to share about the design, build process, and lessons learned—whether in a short overview or deeper technical dive, depending on audience interest.
https://www.navalengineers.org/Education/Promoting-Electric-Propulsion-PEP
In addition, six students from Norfolk State University will be on hand to talk about their PEP and STEM projects, academic journeys, and future plans in the maritime and engineering fields. This is a great opportunity to meet the next generation of innovators, ask questions, and help encourage their continued engagement in our maritime community.
Dress Attire:
Come as you are from the yard, office, or ship—work gear is absolutely welcome. Holiday flair is encouraged, and ugly sweaters will be applauded (and probably photographed)!
Event Timeline (4:00–6:00 PM)
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4:00 – 4:15 PM | Check-In & First Round
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Guests arrive, check in, grab a name badge and a seasonal drink.
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Light music and hors d’oeuvres start circulating.
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4:15 – 4:25 PM | Welcome & Brief Remarks
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ASNE-TW leadership gives a short welcome.
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Quick overview of the evening, recognition of current events, and a plug for upcoming 2025/2026 events.
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4:25 – 5:15 PM | Open Networking & Social Hour
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5:15 – 5:45 PM | Holiday Toast & Community Speaker
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5:45 – 5:55 PM | Last-Chance Conversations
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5:55 – 6:00 PM | Closing & Farewell
Networking Focus
This social is designed for easy, low-pressure networking—whether you’re a long-time member, a first-time guest, or a student exploring maritime careers.
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Meet across silos: Connect with engineers, program managers, shipyard reps, vendors, and academic partners in a relaxed, informal setting.
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Support for students & early-career professionals: ASNE-TW leaders will be available to introduce students and young professionals to potential mentors, hiring managers, and project leads.
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Real conversations, not just small talk: Come ready to share ideas, compare notes on current challenges, and explore how we can work together to strengthen the regional maritime ecosystem.
Bring your business cards (or LinkedIn QR code), a favorite sea story, and your ideas for how ASNE-TW can better serve you and the Hampton Roads maritime community in the year ahead.