This year, students in Mrs. Inglis’s Engineering Essentials class took on a bold, real-world challenge: improving a local boat landing in Beaufort County to better serve both the community and the environment.

The project began in the classroom, where students explored the impact of impervious surfaces and brainstormed ways to enhance accessibility, safety, and sustainability at the site. But it quickly evolved into a multifaceted engineering experience that blended technology, teamwork, and hands-on exploration.

To guide their planning, students used a Geographic Information System (GIS) to create a digital model of the landing area. By analyzing data on water depth, boat traffic, and ecological sensitivity, they were able to make informed decisions about design elements that would minimize environmental impact while improving function.

Wanting to go beyond the digital map, the class took a field trip to the Alljoy Boat Landing, where they walked the property, studied the layout, and explored possible design options from an on-the-ground perspective. This visit allowed them to observe key details that a satellite image couldn’t capture—and inspired new ideas rooted in both practicality and stewardship.

Our students engaged with this project in a meaningful way. They weren’t just designing for a grade—they were designing for their community, with a long-term mindset and a heart for sustainability.

Mrs. Amy Inglis, HHCA STEM Mentor

Throughout the semester, students worked collaboratively, drawing on one another’s strengths in coding, modeling, research, and presentation. Their final recommendations, which they will present to their contact at Beaufort County, reflect a thoughtful blend of innovation, care for creation, and civic responsibility.

From virtual maps to muddy boots, this project captured the essence of HHCA’s inquiry-based learning model—where curiosity leads, collaboration flourishes, and students are empowered to make a difference.