Naval-constructor training as procurement protection

MIT established a three-year naval-construction course in 1901 to prepare U.S. Navy officers for construction duties. The first year covered the development of warships, preliminary design, stability, weights, watertight subdivision, and vibration. The second covered structural strength, riveted joints, machinery installation, fuel storage, and steering. The third brought in drainage and ventilation, boat handling, artillery, ammunition arrangements, torpedoes, armor, and protection against underwater attack. Officers with that training could judge whether contractors were supplying what the navy had requested and challenge misleading proposals. Later cost-cutting is criticized for treating such expertise as useful only during procurement. A proposed alternative combines structural-design education with specialist damage-control training for officers and NCOs. Engineering career paths could then retain that knowledge throughout the fleet, including senior technical appointments.