170726-N-FB203-223 SAN DIEGO (July 26, 2017) Quartermaster 2nd Class Amanda Franks describes equipment functions of the bridge to members of the Blue Heart Foundation during a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) event aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). The Department of the Navy is actively engaged in efforts to improve STEM education in the U.S. in order to ensure that an educated workforce is ready to meet the Navy and Marine Corps manning needs. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Sean P. Gallagher/Released)