Transition By Asher Momplaisir

Being in the Vessel Operation Program for three years, I learned various things I can take to the workforce. This program, which is at the New York Harbor School, emphasizes work-based learning experiences on vessels integrating skills that can be applied outside the classroom. Those things include interpersonal skills, Teamwork, and the importance of professionalism. With this, I am also able to see potential room for improvement. In this case, one must convert INDY 7, a diesel boat, into an electric one. Skills like these began to be used in our day-to-day lives. Whether driving a boat down New York Harbor, getting ready to cast off oysters, or speaking to so many people about your school, public speaking becomes second nature and not a burden. Being in this program also highlights potential improvements for the industry. A vast majority of vessels in the industry are fueled by either gas or diesel. Fossil Fuels, although extremely helpful, are terrible for the environment and emit tons of greenhouse gases. Our fleet consists of 90% diesel & 10% gasoline, with one of our diesel boats out of commission.

INDY 7, one of our vessels on the diesel fleet, is a retired naval launch boat donated to the school and used as the primary vessel to teach students the basics of vessel operations and seamanship. Indy is also used after school during the waterfront. Waterfront is a program where students become in debt in things surrounding vessels and things about the water. This is where we get into the technicalities of doing essential maintenance, such as something as easy as an oil change, to the more advanced things, like sanding down decks. Her time was stopped as she had been running for a long time. Fixing her engine is always possible, but converting this vessel into an electrical one can benefit both the environment and the reliability of this boat, creating more teaching experiences for students.

Electrical engines have fewer moving parts, have the most straightforward designs, are Quieter, and use direct drive systems( Which eliminate Gears, belts, etc., found on a gasoline boat. As a senior in the college application process, I’ve been accepted into schools focusing on converting ships and making them more environmentally friendly. With this, I’ve been accepted into the Suny Maritimes  Environmental Science Program, where can help make a change in this conversion. On a more literal aspect, with Indy being heavily leaned towards the greener side of vessels, we can live up to the environmental name and history that both B.O.P and New York Harbor School have. In addition to the carbon aspect, this can give kids like me a chance to expand their knowledge of vessel operations since electric engine boats are relatively new to the industry.