Founded in 2017, the Society of Ocean Engineers at Florida Institute of Technology continues to expand opportunities for students seeking careers in the growing field of ocean engineering, offering networking nights, industry connections and hands-on exposure beyond traditional coursework.
The student organization, known as SOE, focuses on professional development and career preparation for ocean engineering majors. Through guest speakers, conference attendance and volunteer efforts, leaders say the club helps students bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world industry experience.
Richard Donley, a junior and the president of SOE, said the organization plays a direct role in helping members secure internships and professional connections.“I’m seeking a profession as an ocean engineer, as are many, if not all, of the club members,” Donley said. “My hope is that as we continue our commitment to networking events, I may even receive an internship or job through our club events.”
Donley said those efforts have already produced results. One SOE member secured a summer 2025 internship with a local turtle conservancy, creating additional industry connections that could benefit future Florida Tech students.
SOE regularly hosts networking nights where students can interact directly with professionals in coastal engineering, offshore systems and marine infrastructure. The organization’s leaders say these events give members the opportunity to ask questions, explore different specialties and begin building relationships with potential employers while still in college.
“There is so much research and design work going on within our department that Ocean Engineering 101 doesn’t quite cover,” Donley said.
Julia Nicholson, a junior and SOE treasurer, said the organization is especially valuable for students interested in specialized areas such as dredging, the process of removing sediment from the bottom of waterways to maintain channels and ports, and offshore engineering.
“One of the things I love about the Society of Ocean Engineers is that, as much as they can, they bring in people who are currently in the field,” Nicholson said. “It doesn’t hurt to have connections when you’re in college.”
In addition to networking nights, SOE encourages members to attend professional conferences hosted by industry organizations such as the Marine Technology Society, the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers and the American Shore and
Beach Preservation Association, where companies actively recruit emerging engineers. Nicholson said those opportunities help students better understand the variety of career paths available within the discipline.
“I can also go to conferences where the companies I want to be in will be,” Nicholson said. “It’s just a really good resource to start networking while you’re in college.”
Beyond career development, the organization also emphasizes service and environmental involvement. Members participate in beach cleanups and collaborate with turtle conservation efforts when possible, reinforcing the environmental focus central to ocean engineering.
Maggie Langenohl, a junior and vice president of SOE, said the club has made growth and increased engagement a priority after experiencing lower participation in previous years.
“We focus a lot on future careers,” Langenohl said. “We bring in guest speakers and go to conferences hosted by organizations such as the Marine Technology Society and the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers to map out the different areas of ocean engineering and how you can find job opportunities after college.”
Langenohl said SOE also hosts study sessions and social events to support students in a demanding major. This semester, the organization plans to expand fundraising efforts to help offset travel costs for conferences hosted by professional organizations such as the Marine Technology Society and increase access to professional development opportunities.
“We want to keep bringing people back and getting more people involved,” Langenohl said.
As SOE continues to grow, leaders say the organization remains committed to strengthening professional connections and preparing Florida Tech students for competitive careers in ocean engineering.
