Ware Lab: Human-powered submarine

About the Team

From the depths of the Ware Lab emerges one of Virginia Tech’s most unique student-run engineering teams: the Human Powered Submarine Team (HPS). Since 1991, HPS has been making waves in the world of underwater innovation by designing, building, and racing fully submerged, human-powered submarines. With pilots on scuba and an engineering challenge unlike any other, the team blends creativity, precision, and teamwork to push the boundaries of marine technology. This year, they’re gearing up to dive headfirst into victory at the 18th International Submarine Races (ISR).

Steering the team this season is Cara Johnston (President, ME ‘25) and Ben Keenan (Head of Design, ME ‘25), with guidance from faculty advisor Dr. Robert Stone. HPS operates with a dual leadership structure: officers handle administrative tasks(finance, sponsorships, and outreach) while lead engineers manage the technical development of the submarine. The team is structured into four subteams: Hydrodynamics, Controls, Structures, and Electronics, ensuring that every component of the submarine is precisely engineered for peak underwater performance.

Each subteam offers unique hands-on learning experiences. Hydrodynamics focuses on the hull and propeller design and manufacturing, using OpenProp and Star CCM to optimize performance. Controls handles everything related to maneuverability and stability. This includes joystick ergonomics and control surface design, utilizing CAD modeling and testing. Structures is responsible for the submarine’s internal framework, including the sternplate and hatches, with members gaining practical skills in machining and welding. Electronics takes on the challenge of integrating electrical components like pilot displays, safety lights, and sensors, ensuring they function reliably in a fully submerged environment. The team also provides for a unique interdisciplinary Senior Design project. This small group of seniors works on R&D projects for the submarine, which includes autonomous controls to maintain underwater stability and drivetrain optimization. Each subteam comes together to make the submarine the best it can be, which is seen with the team’s long term success.

Testing of the current submarine, Exlienni.

“Many of the difficulties that we have overcome involve keeping everything waterproof. This includes being meticulous with our wiring, adding leak sensors, and designing our waterproof boxes to withstand some water entering. There has been a lot of work in designing how the pilot and divers interact with the system.” -Niranjan Aradhey (Electronics LE, ME’27)

Exlienni and the International Submarine Races

With a biennial competition, HPS follows a two-year design cycle, dedicating one year to development and another to rigorous testing before competition. Their latest vessel, Exlienni, pays tribute to Virginia Tech tradition with a name inspired by “Exit Light, Enter Night”, a nod to Enter Sandman. This name embodies the team’s passion, determination, and engineering excellence. Exlienni features a streamlined hull for optimal speed, advanced control systems for

precision maneuverability, and innovative autonomous functionality, setting it apart from previous designs.

HPS has competed in the ISR since the team’s inception, consistently placing well in multiple categories. The competition’s 100-meter underwater drag race challenges teams to achieve maximum speed and efficiency. HPS competes in the single-pilot, propeller-driven category, with Exlienni aiming to outperform previous designs through superior hydrodynamics and enhanced propulsion. ISR 18 will take place June 22-27, 2025, at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Division in Bethesda, Maryland. Rigorous testing and final refinements will determine just how competitive Exlienni will be in the upcoming race.

“There’s nothing like it, piloting takes intense concentration and nerves because you are utterly alone down there, 20 feet deep in the dark in that sub. However, there is no feeling like crossing the finish line. I got Kraken (2023 HPS Submarine) across the finish line on the last day of competition and I have never felt more elated. Navy safety divers bringing you to the surface and when I got back on land, team members lifted me up on their shoulders and carried me back to our tent cheering, like in a movie. Really, both diving and piloting the sub are incredibly unique experiences.”- Maggie Campbell (Hydrodynamics LE, OE’26)

Opportunities with HPS

Joining HPS provides students with a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in SolidWorks, Star CCM, and Python, as well as practical manufacturing techniques like machining, welding, and composite fabrication. Returning members can also pursue SCUBA certification, a crucial skill for piloting and ballasting the submarine underwater. Under the supervision of Maggie Campbell (Dive Master, OE ‘26), trained divers play a vital role in ensuring Exlienni’s performance in the water. HPS thrives thanks to sponsors and partners’ support. Aquatrek Adventures, a local dive shop in Salem, provides SCUBA training and equipment, while major companies like Northrop Grumman, Fincantieri, and Sherwood contribute to the team’s technical and financial resources. The Ware Lab and Student Engineers’ Council (SEC) also provide critical funding, networking, and outreach opportunities, ensuring that HPS remains a competitive and innovative force in the engineering design team world.

Beyond engineering, HPS fosters a close-knit community. Whether it’s late nights in the lab, pool testing days, or team social events, members form strong bonds through their shared passion for engineering and competition. The team regularly hosts social gatherings, community outreach opportunities, and diving trips, creating an environment where students can grow both professionally and personally. The journey is as rewarding as the final competition, making every moment on the team an invaluable experience.

“One memory that sticks out to me was the Donor Demonstration held for College of Engineering alumni earlier this year. Testing days are always the most fun because the team gets to see all the hard work we have put into our projects in action. It really makes you excited about competition and reminds me why I love this team so much.”- Ashley Woods (Sponsor Relations, ME’26)

Power output testing of potential pilot.

Join the Crew

Virginia Tech’s Human Powered Submarine Team offers an unparalleled hands-on engineering experience, blending cutting-edge marine technology with real-world teamwork. Whether you’re looking to develop technical skills, contribute to innovative designs, or join a passionate team, HPS is the perfect place to start. To follow the team’s journey, get involved, or offer support, visit hps.aoe.vt.edu and follow them on Instagram: @vthps. Be a sub-above the rest and dive in with the Human Powered Submarine Team!