The team from the Department of Marine Science at the Naval Academy, consisting of students Luo Junzhi, Cai Yujin, and Jiang Chongyu from the 116th Class, participated in the 2024 2nd NODASS (NODASS Master) Ocean Big Data Competition organized by the National Taiwan Ocean Research Institute. Led by Associate Professor Zhong Yuren, Director of the Data Center, and in collaboration with the College of Engineering, the team focused on the development of an "AI Unmanned Ocean Vehicle Deployment Decision and Risk Management System." The project primarily utilizes artificial intelligence combined with edge computing devices to conduct real-time ocean condition forecasting, supporting decision-making for nearshore operations.

NODASS (NODASS Master) is an ocean information platform that constructs three major ocean-related data domains. This competition encourages innovative proposals and team collaboration to cultivate talents in ocean big data exploration and practical applications. Despite fierce competition from graduate students at top universities across Taiwan, the team passed the initial and second reviews and emerged as the champions, winning the Excellence Award (first place) at the final competition on December 6. The award was presented by Deputy Minister Huang Wen from the Ocean Affairs Council, with congratulatory remarks from National Taiwan Ocean Research Institute Director Professor Chen Jianhong and other faculty members.

Balancing team management and academic projects to achieve results is no easy feat. The participating students first expressed gratitude for the support from the school president, the department, and the student team leader. They also thanked their senior students and peers for their understanding, which enabled the team to reach this point. Special thanks were given to the professors for their dedicated guidance, whether on typhoon days, holidays, or late nights on campus. Under the careful mentoring of Professor Zhong Yuren, Professor Tian Zongmo, and Professor Chen Meihui, the team overcame numerous difficulties and grew throughout the process. Finally, they expressed gratitude to the Ocean Affairs Council and the National Taiwan Ocean Research Institute for providing the NODASS ocean data platform and the competition opportunity, allowing the team to learn and challenge themselves.

This six-month learning journey was filled with challenges, but the students gained valuable lessons from their failures. Starting with no knowledge of programming, they advanced to using artificial intelligence for ocean condition forecasting. Reflecting on this journey, each student not only learned technical skills but also deeply understood the power of teamwork and perseverance. By dedicating themselves fully, they were able to immerse themselves in the process and enjoy the experience. This competition is not the end; the team will continue to strive forward, hoping to further learn with AI at the core and contribute to ocean applications.