The First American book on shipboard engineering in nearly twenty years, this useful reference offers a guiding philosophy to new, experienced, and prospective engineers. Focusing on the art of the engineer rather than the doctrine and regulations that govern the technical side of the billet, it helps engineers become more effective at their jobs.

Assuming that readers already possess basic knowledge of engineering principles and practices, the author sets forth a coherent blueprint to achieve and maintain the level of readiness necessary to support sustained operations at sea. The author guides the reader through all of the challenges an engineer officer will encounter, from taking over the department, through an overhaul, to the various evolutions and assessment processes that confirm readiness to deploy to faraway regions of the world.

This book strikes a balance between current fleet conventions and engineering practices that have withstood the test of time. Navy, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marine engineering officers and Navy surface and submarine warfare officers will all benefit from heeding its advice, which until now could only be learned through experience.