by Rich Stratton, Assistant Director of Public Relations
When most people look across the ocean, they see waves rolling toward the shore. Toby Dewhurst sees opportunity.
A 2009 mechanical engineering graduate of Cedarville University, Toby has built a career helping people harness the power and potential of the sea. From sustainable energy to aquaculture, his work sits at the heart of what many call the “blue economy” — using ocean resources responsibly to meet some of humanity’s greatest needs.
How a Solar Boat Project Launched a Career in Ocean Engineering
Toby’s journey began in an unexpected place. As a Cedarville student, he joined the University’s solar boat team and discovered the fascinating challenge of designing structures that interact with waves, currents, and wind. The experience sparked a curiosity that eventually carried him to graduate school and a career in ocean engineering.
Leading Innovation in the Growing Blue Economy
Today, Toby leads Kelson Marine, an international engineering company based in Maine. His team helps design offshore structures that can withstand the ocean’s harshest conditions while producing food and renewable energy. Whether supporting tidal energy projects or creating systems for growing mussels, oysters, and other seafood, Toby combines engineering expertise with a desire to solve real-world problems.
Solving Engineering Challenges Beneath the Ocean's Surface
Along the way, he learned that the ocean still holds plenty of mysteries. Early in his career, while studying aquaculture systems off the coast, he discovered that even the best engineering tools struggled to predict how offshore structures would respond to changing ocean conditions. Instead of becoming discouraged, Toby embraced the challenge. He and his colleagues developed better tools and a deeper understanding, helping advance an industry that continues to grow around the world.
Why Ocean Engineering Matters for the Future
On the Cedarville Stories podcast, Toby shared his excitement about the future. As the global population grows, so does the demand for sustainable food and clean energy. He believes the ocean can play an important role in meeting those needs.
For Toby, engineering is about more than calculations and designs; it is about serving people. From the coast of Maine to communities around the globe, he is helping others use the oceans wisely, proving that innovation, perseverance, and a little curiosity can make waves that reach far beyond the shoreline.
About Cedarville University
Cedarville University, an evangelical Christian institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate residential and online programs across the arts, sciences and professional fields. With 7,265 students, it is among Ohio's largest private universities and is ranked among the nation's top five evangelical universities in the Wall Street Journal's 2026 Best Colleges rankings. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics, and high graduation and retention rates. More information is available at cedarville.edu.
