LCA Alumnus Jacob Gehring Gains Hands-On Engineering Experience in Hawaii

LCA Alumnus Jacob Gehring Gains Hands-On Engineering Experience in Hawaii

When Lexington Christian Academy alumnus Jacob Gehring ('24) began studying Mechanical Engineering at Hope College, he knew he wanted opportunities to apply what he was learning in the classroom. This summer, that ambition took him more than 4,000 miles from Kentucky to the Pacific Ocean, where he served as an undergraduate intern with the Department of Ocean and Resources Engineering (ORE) at the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

Now a rising junior at Hope College, Jacob spent his summer immersed in the world of marine robotics, contributing to research focused on underwater autonomous systems. His work centered on a unique challenge: developing and improving technology that allows robots to be charged wirelessly underwater through inductive charging.

"One of my main projects was working with graduate students to modify an existing robot and make it fully autonomous," Jacob explained.

Throughout the internship, Jacob played a key role in rebuilding a wireless charging system previously developed by the university. He also helped redesign the main watertight compartments within the robot, creating space for new electronics while accommodating stronger thrusters. Because the robot is still under development, Jacob was able to contribute directly to the design process, implementing improvements and testing new ideas.

The internship provided extensive hands-on engineering experience. Jacob regularly tested the robot in water tanks to measure heat generation and power consumption from the newly added autonomous systems.

Beyond the technical skills he developed, Jacob appreciated the opportunity to collaborate with researchers and graduate students while gaining insight into real-world engineering design challenges. The experience deepened his understanding of robotics, systems engineering, and the iterative process of building and improving technology.

Life outside the lab was equally memorable, as Jacob was able to enjoy Hawaii’s landscape and scenery.

"My days mostly consisted of going to the university for research in the morning and then surfing in the evening," he shared.

The summer also gave Jacob the chance to live in Hawaii alongside one of his best friends, making the experience both professionally rewarding and personally unforgettable.

Reflecting on his time at the University of Hawaii, Jacob describes the internship as an incredible opportunity to learn, grow, and explore potential career paths. While he’s still determining exactly where his engineering journey will lead, he plans to focus on completing his degree at Hope College and pursuing a career in mechanical engineering.

From LCA to marine robotics research in Hawaii, Jacob's story is a testament to the value of curiosity, hard work, and embracing new opportunities. We are proud to see our alumni making an impact and wish Jacob continued success as he advances in his engineering career.