The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Carderock Division (NSWCCD) hosted its ninth annual Carderock Math Contest (CMC), in West Bethesda, Md., on April 13, 2018. More than 220 students from over 30 regional schools participated in this science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) outreach event by showcasing their mathematical talents in a series of individual and team MATHCOUNTS-style tests.

The morning, written-test portion of the event consisted of sprint and target rounds and concluded with a team round. The top scorers in the morning competitions moved on to the main event, the oral countdown round, answering advanced math questions for speed in a bracket-style tournament. Carderock scientists and engineers helped proctor and score the tests, while also speaking with the students about their careers in STEM. Additionally, students were also able to tour various facilities across Carderock to gain a better the research and technology scientists and engineers conduct in the labs.

Capt. Mark Vandroff, Carderock's commanding officer, kicked off the event with a brief speech to the elementary and middle school children in attendance.

"Carderock is a place where math and science come together to aid in the defense of our country," Vandroff said. "We are very proud of what we do here and hope to encourage individuals in our community, and students at all levels, of the power of math."

This year’s keynote speaker was Nelson Dellis, a four-time USA Memory Champion and one of the leading memory experts in the world. Dellis travels the world as a competitive memory athlete and has claimed four U.S. titles, including the elite Grandmaster of Memory title, as well as a number of U.S. memory records. Dellis has been featured on The TODAY Show, FOX's Superhuman, CNN, ABC Nightline, Dr. Oz and Nat Geo. His book, “Remember It!,” will be in stores this fall.

Dellis said he was born with an average memory, but the passing of his grandmother from Alzheimer's disease in 2009 inspired him to start training his memory so that he could keep his mind strong and healthy throughout his lifespan.

"You might think I was born with this skill, but I had an average memory until about seven years ago," Dellis said. "Through techniques and practice, any one of you can do what I and other competitors do at memory competitions. Even things that seem impossible can be accomplished by anyone with a little bit of guidance."

The CMC made a big impact on attendees both young and old, and continues to celebrate these bright, hardworking students and help equip them with the knowledge and skills to succeed in college and in their careers.

Information in this post was excerpted from the following NSWCCD press release: http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=105191.