SNAME Blog

Nick Hunter is a senior naval architect and marine engineer with NETSCo, Inc., an engineering firm based in Cleveland, OH and Tampa, FL. After graduating from the University of Michigan, he went to work for Naval Systems Warfare Center Carderock Division developing hull coatings for the future Ohio Replacement submarine class.

Through his SNAME involvement, Nick connected with NETSCo in 2015, and moved to Cleveland to start a new job as a Naval Architect/Marine Engineer with NETSCo. While at NETSCo, he has focused on the integration of onboard bulk cargo handling systems and the design of future fuel systems. Working at NETSCo allows Nick the unique opportunity to support vessel owners and operators in conversions, retrofits, and newbuilds in a one-on-one, collaborative, environment. 

Nick continues to participate with SNAME; he is the current Membership Chair for the Great Lakes/Great Rivers Section, and the Sections Committee Chair. Nick is a registered PE in Ohio, and a lifetime member of the Michigan Alumni Association. Currently working with the ASTM F25 Standards Committee and the (mt) Editorial Board, Nick is actively involved in the direction of the industry's growth. 

 

 

 

 

 

Questions:  

1. At what point in your career did you join SNAME? 

I joined SNAME in my first year of college for the book discounts. 

 

2. How has SNAME membership been of value to you in your career? 

SNAME’s professional and technical community has been incredibly valuable to me in my career. Networking at SNAME events allows me to learn about new advances in the marine industry while strengthening my professional relationships. Watching presentations at Section Events, or reading papers from SMC showcases new technologies and research that better prepare me in my day to day job. Volunteering with SNAME also allows me to further develop meaningful relationships with some of the industry’s most influential leaders. 

 

3. When did you know you wanted to pursue a job in the maritime field? 

I knew I wanted to pursue a job in the maritime field when I was in high school. I grew up with a fishing boat on Lake Michigan, and when I learned that someone, somewhere, was paid to design and build that boat, I wanted to pursue that career. 

 

4. What advice would you give to those entering the maritime field? 

I would advise a new maritime professional to keep an open mind and to not be afraid of taking big risks. 

 

5. What do you do in your spare time? 

In my spare time I go for long runs, cheer for Michigan football, and make gifts in my woodshop. 

 

6. What is your favorite book, movie or tv series? 

Other than (mt), of course, my favorite book is anything written by Erik Larson. I love most movies, but I could watch Monty Python and the Holy Grail on repeat. My favorite TV series currently is Game of Thrones.

 

7. What is a fun fact about yourself? 

A fun fact about me is that my grandfather built model boats as a hobby. So, if you visit my home, you’ll find a wooden boat in every room!