AUGUST 12, 2013 — Bremerton, WA, based Art Anderson Associates has hired of two new team members. Stephen E. Gatz, PE, is a naval architect working in the firm's marine group, while Marc A. Derenburger has joined the facilities group as an entry-level mechanical engineer.

Stephen E. Gatz, PE (left) and Marc A. Derenburger

Stephen Gatz brings a diverse background in naval architecture & marine engineering design, marine research and development, and marine operations.

His first professional experience was as a Program Manager and Captain for Silverbay Marine Services, where he became versed in maritime practices and values. Already holding a degree in Geography and Geology, he was drawn to the marine industry, and obtained a second Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of British Columbia. He developed his experience as a Student Engineer with BC Ferries, and as a Research and Design Engineer with Mustang Survival Corporation, where he conceived, designed, and managed development of personal flotation devices and adverse weather survival garments.

He went on to work in naval architecture roles with Elliott Bay Design Group and Jensen Maritime Consultants before obtaining his Professional Engineering license.

A resident of Kitsap County, Mr. Gatz has thus far primarily been engaged in the project to develop what is intended to be the first hybrid ferry on Puget Sound, for Kitsap Transit. "I'm excited by what I've seen so far from Steve," said Ralph Duncan, Vice-President of the Marine Group. "Beyond his clear technical abilities, he brings a great attitude of teamwork and creativity that meshes well with our team."

Also joining the firm is Marc A. Derenburger, a recent summa cum laude graduate of Washington State University's mechanical engineering program at Olympic College. Mr. Derenburger's educational credentials and strong desire to learn the ropes of the profession impressed the leadership at Art Anderson Associates. His accomplishments include development of a maze-solving robot, design and analysis of a steam power plant, and coauthoring a patent for real-time guidance and mapping of a tunnel boring machine and tunnel.

Mr. Derenburger will work closely in a mentor-protégé relationship with the Chief Design Engineer of the firm's Facilities Group, Sean Hoynes. "Marc is an impressive young man eager to learn and grow professionally," said Mr. Hoynes. "He will quickly become an important asset in meeting the strong demand in the mechanical discipline."