One Firefly is proud to support the Virginia Tech Human Powered Submarine (HPS) Team through a sponsorship commitment of $5,000, including a $2,500 contribution this spring and an additional $2,500 pledged for the fall semester.
For One Firefly Founder and CEO Ron Callis, this sponsorship represents far more than a financial contribution. It is a full-circle moment that reconnects him with an organization that helped shape his leadership journey more than 25 years ago.
A Team That Helped Shape a Future Entrepreneur
As a Mechanical Engineering student at Virginia Tech from 1997 to 2000, Ron was an active member of the Human Powered Submarine Team throughout his college career. What began as an opportunity to participate in a unique engineering challenge quickly evolved into a defining leadership experience.
As a freshman, Ron served as the “engine” inside the submarine, pedaling the vessel while wearing scuba gear during competition. By his sophomore year, he had taken on the ambitious task of designing the team’s next-generation submarine. Over the following two years, he helped recruit and lead a team of students who would build and refine the vessel.
Ron later became captain of the team and helped lead Virginia Tech to a World Championship victory in 2000.
The team’s success extended beyond a single title. During that championship season, Virginia Tech earned multiple awards, including recognition for engineering excellence, manufacturing, safety, presentation, and overall performance—setting a standard that remains one of the most celebrated achievements in the program’s history.
“Looking back, the submarine team taught me lessons that still apply today,” said Callis. “It doesn't matter whether it's a submarine or a business. Set a goal, inspire others, point them in the direction, and never give up. One day, you'll build something pretty cool.”
Returning to Virginia Tech
Earlier this year, Ron returned to Virginia Tech with his son while attending a Science Olympiad event. During the visit, he reconnected with members of the current Human Powered Submarine Team and toured the program’s facilities.
The experience brought back memories of his time on the team and reinforced his desire to help support the next generation of engineers, innovators, and leaders.
Adding to the significance of the visit, the awards earned by Ron’s championship team more than two decades ago still hang on the walls of the program’s workspace—a reminder of the impact that dedicated students can have when they work together toward a common goal.
Today, thanks to One Firefly’s sponsorship, the company’s logo can be found on the team’s submarine as they continue pursuing engineering excellence.
Investing in Future Innovators
For Ron, one of the most rewarding aspects of the program is seeing where its participants go after graduation.
Many of his former teammates have gone on to distinguished careers in aerospace, defense, military service, and advanced engineering. The Human Powered Submarine Team provides students with hands-on experience solving complex challenges, managing projects, collaborating across disciplines, and bringing innovative ideas to life.
These are the same qualities that One Firefly values and seeks to encourage through its community involvement efforts.
This sponsorship also aligns with the company’s broader commitment to supporting STEM education and youth development initiatives, including programs such as FIRST Robotics and other educational opportunities that help students develop practical skills and confidence.
“These programs are funded largely through sponsorships,” said Callis. “I love helping support the passions of students who are building the future. It’s a meaningful way for One Firefly to give back.”
As the Virginia Tech Human Powered Submarine Team prepares for future competitions, One Firefly is honored to play a small role in helping students pursue ambitious goals, solve challenging problems, and continue a tradition of engineering excellence.