PORT HUENEME, Calif. – A 2006 First Coast High School graduate and St. Augustine, Florida, native is currently serving with the U.S. Navy as an engineering duty officer (EDO), involved with the design, acquisition, construction, repair, maintenance, conversion, overhaul and disposal of ships, submarines, aircraft carriers and the systems installed aboard.
Lt. Robyn Bianchi completed the basic course at Engineering Duty Officer School Nov. 2.“This course sets the foundation for your career as an EDO,” said Bianchi. “I was impressed by the leadership topics presented throughout the course, and I made lasting connections with my classmates and staff whom I will continue to turn to as my career continues.”
Graduation from this five-week course is a requirement for EDOs before reporting to their initial assignments in the fleet.
“This course provides the professional proficiency of the EDO through training in those plans, programs, policies and procedures by which the Navy accomplishes the life cycle engineering of ships and ship systems,” said Capt. Scott Davis, the school’s commanding officer. “The long-range goal is to provide the fundamentals and familiarize the officers with resources they will be using in the fleet.”
Bianchi obtained her commission and bachelor’s degree in ocean engineering from the United States Naval Academy in 2011.
“I joined the Navy because I felt a call to serve after the events of September 11,” said Bianchi. “Going forward, I intend to continue my service and hope to inspire young girls in STEM [science, technology, engineering and math] fields.”
Bianchi will soon report to Supervisor of Salvage and Diving Operations (NAVSEA 00C) and will serve as the assistant for salvage.
“At Engineering Duty Officer School, we are committed to training, developing and inspiring our Navy’s engineering duty officers,” said Davis. “Our graduates leave our course prepared to deliver professional leadership in the fleet.”
The EDO basic course covers research and development, acquisition, maintenance and modernization of ships and ship systems, combat and weapon systems, ordnance and electronic systems. Graduates earn credit for two Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act courses.
Bianchi is the daughter of Robert Wegele, who resides of St. Augustine, Florida.
EDO School improves the professional proficiency of EDOs through training in plans, programs, policies, and procedures by which the Navy accomplishes the life cycle engineering of naval ships and systems. It serves as a focal point for the EDO community development applying practical knowledge and experience to integrate science, technology and design into affordable ships and systems.
For more information on EDO School, visit https://www.public.navy.mil/netc/centers/edo.