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October 2011 www.sname.org/sname/mt REVIEWED BY GEOFF UTTMARK This book is a highly readable, well-orga- nized presentation of the many engineering disciplines within the mari- time industry, and the career opportunities oered by each. The author does a creditable job of explaining that there are in fact two kinds of marine engineers?one designs ship propulsion systems, while the other operates them as a licensed officer aboard sea- going vessels. Marine design engineers have more in com- mon with naval engineers than do seagoing marine engineers, but there is a lot of overlap. Supporting the many high-tech systems that go into a ship are marine engineering technologists and marine maintenance technologists. On the hull side, the author likewise does a good job of explaining the similarities and dierences between naval architects and ocean engineers. Intended to educate and interest high school students in explor- ing maritime engineering career opportunities, the book can be appreciated by a larger constituency as well for its delineations and denitions. Why are there so many similar-sounding profes- sional job titles in the maritime industry? It is because the industry is profoundly broad and deep, encom- passing everything from commercial cargo ships to military combatants, from recreational craft to research submersibles and underwater habitats. All require mar- itime engineer skills in one form or another to design and operate, thereby providing a rich diversity of career opportunities. e book concludes by recommending several ways high school students interested in a career in maritime engineering can further prepare themselves. In addi- tion to the expected suggestions, such as participation in design competitions, intern work, and developing good communications skills, are others that are novel, like building a SeaPerch remote-controlled model. e book is a valuable addition to the literature, but I have two recommendations for improvement in the second edition. First, because the book is clearly aimed at encourag- ing students to explore a career in maritime engineering, Web site addresses of relevant programs at academic institutions should be included. Webb Institute requires no more elucidation but others, like the University of Michigan, Department of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering, just might. Second, in a few places, inaccurate statements could be corrected, such as At the time (1912) not many sci- entific papers on ship design had been published.? SNAME, RINA, IMarEST, and others would beg to dier. e room for improvement in this book is small com- pared to its great value to young engineering scholars and to the world maritime community. I hope my own son will read this book one day and join the best and brightest that our industry deserves. MTGoe Uttmark is a member of SNAME and frequently employs stu- dent interns at his consulting companies. He also teachesmodel boatbuilding. Maritime Careers and Vessel Histories The Maritime Engineer By Celeste Baine PUBLISHED BY THE ENGINEERING EDUCATION SERVICE CENTER (in review )