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Submarine Officer | MS Mechanical Engineer | Thermodynamics, Dynamics
Benjamin M.

5.0 (35 ratings)

101 hours tutoring

Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee
Hourly Rate: $60
Contact Benjamin
Response time: 55 minutes

About Benjamin

Bio

I help students master challenging STEM courses through clear, structured engineering-style problem solving. As a U.S. Naval Academy graduate (BSME), a Master’s degree holder in Mechanical Engineering (MSME) from the Naval Postgraduate School, and an active-duty Submarine Officer, I bring high-level technical expertise and a methodical approach that goes beyond standard tutoring. I specialize in breaking down complex, high-stakes topics — from foundational Algebra and Calculus to advanced...

I help students master challenging STEM courses through clear, structured engineering-style problem solving. As a U.S. Naval Academy graduate (BSME), a Master’s degree holder in Mechanical Engineering (MSME) from the Naval Postgraduate School, and an active-duty Submarine Officer, I bring high-level technical expertise and a methodical approach that goes beyond standard tutoring. I specialize in breaking down complex, high-stakes topics — from foundational Algebra and Calculus to advanced Engineering subjects like Thermodynamics, Dynamics, Fluids, and Differential Equations—into manageable steps.

Every session is interactive and built for deep understanding. I use a professional digital whiteboard to work through problems in real-time, and after every lesson, you receive a full PDF export of our work and a video recording of the session. This allows you to focus entirely on the concepts during our time together instead of rushing to take notes. If you aren't sure if I cover your specific course, feel free to send a syllabus or a problem set for me to review beforehand.

My base rate is $60/hr. For specialized upper-level or graduate engineering coursework, rates may vary depending on course complexity and the preparation required to ensure the highest quality of instruction. For current USNA Midshipmen, I understand the unique demands of the Academy and offer a special discounted rate to support our future officers. Please message me before booking so we can discuss your specific goals and ensure we are the right fit for your needs. I look forward to helping you achieve your goals!

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Education

US Naval Academy
BS Mech Engineering
Naval Postgraduate School
Masters

Policies

  • Hourly Rate: $60
  • Rate details: Base rate: $60. College STEM: $75. Advanced Eng (Thermo/Fluids/etc): $90. In-person rates vary by location. USNA Midshipmen: Please message before booking so I can apply your discount!
  • Lesson cancellation: 24 hours notice required

  • Background check passed on 12/5/2025

  • Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee

Schedule

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Approved Subjects

ACT Math

ACT Math

Standardized testing is about strategy, not just math. I teach students how to recognize question patterns, manage their time under pressure, and avoid common traps. We will identify your specific weak points and target them with high-yield practice problems to maximize your score on test day.
ACT Science

ACT Science

The ACT Science section is primarily a test of data interpretation and logical reasoning—skills that are essential to my daily responsibilities as a Submarine Officer. I teach students how to quickly navigate dense technical passages, identify variables in experiments, and recognize trends in complex data sets under time pressure. My engineering background allows me to explain the scientific logic behind the questions, helping students feel confident when approaching technical charts and graphs. I focus on developing the specific pattern recognition skills required to achieve a top score in this section.
Algebra 1

Algebra 1

As a Nuclear Engineer and Submarine Officer, I have a deep professional mastery of the mathematical foundations that begin with Algebra 1. I hold a B.S. and M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, degrees that require a thorough understanding of how to translate real-world problems into algebraic equations. My approach focuses on making abstract concepts like variables and functions intuitive by connecting them to the engineering principles I use in high-stakes environments. I am dedicated to helping students build a robust logical framework that will serve as the basis for their future success in STEM.
Algebra 2

Algebra 2

Algebra 2 is the foundation for modeling physical systems, and I leverage my experience as a Nuclear Engineer to show students how these functions apply to real-world technology. I specialize in teaching complex topics such as quadratic functions, logarithms, and matrices through the lens of engineering logic. My goal is to help students build a "step-by-step" problem-solving methodology that ensures they can solve multi-variable equations with confidence. This rigorous approach prepares students for the transition into high-level physics and engineering courses.
ASVAB

ASVAB

As an active duty Submarine Officer and U.S. Naval Academy graduate (B.S. Mechanical Engineering), I have a deep personal and professional understanding of the ASVAB. I use the advanced mathematical and technical principles it measures every day in a high-stakes nuclear environment. I specialize in the Mathematics Knowledge and Arithmetic Reasoning sections, which are the primary drivers for qualifying for elite, high-bonus technical fields like the Nuclear Field (NF), Cryptologic Technician (CT), and Information Systems (IT).
Calculus

Calculus

I demystify complex calculus concepts like derivatives, integrals, and limits by connecting them to logical, real-world engineering applications. My structured approach helps students master the "why" behind the math, ensuring success in AP exams and college coursework. I provide clear, digital notes and recordings for every session to ensure you have the resources to study effectively.
Chemistry

Chemistry

As an active duty Submarine Officer and Nuclear Engineer with a B.S. from the U.S. Naval Academy and an M.S. from the Naval Postgraduate School, I have a deep technical mastery of chemical principles. My professional background requires the daily application of complex thermodynamics, equilibrium, and kinetics in high-stakes environments.
Differential Equations

Differential Equations

As a Nuclear Engineer and Submarine Officer, I have spent years using differential equations to model and manage real-world systems, from nuclear reactor kinetics to fluid dynamics. I hold an M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, which provided a deep theoretical foundation in solving both ordinary and partial differential equations. My tutoring approach focuses on the physical meaning behind the math, helping students understand how these equations model change in the physical world.
Electrical Engineering

Electrical Engineering

My professional background includes the direct oversight of a nuclear submarine's electrical power distribution systems, which involves extensive application of AC/DC theory and electromagnetic principles. I am proficient in core Electrical Engineering topics such as circuit analysis using Kirchhoff's Laws (KCL/KVL), Mesh analysis, and Nodal analysis. With a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, I specialize in the "first principles" approach to help students understand the logic of circuit behavior rather than just memorizing formulas. I am able to relate abstract concepts like phase shifts and impedance to the high-stakes engineering environments I manage daily.
Environmental Science

Environmental Science

As a Navy Submarine Officer and Nuclear Engineer with a BS and MS in Mechanical Engineering and a professional FE certification, I possess a rigorous foundation in the thermodynamic and chemical systems central to environmental science. My professional background includes managing nuclear power operations and ensuring strict adherence to environmental safety protocols in high-stakes maritime environments. I help students navigate honors and university-level environmental coursework by breaking down complex global cycles and ecological concepts into intuitive, logical steps. My teaching philosophy prioritizes conceptual logic and real-world application over rote memorization, allowing students to build the confidence needed to excel in fast-paced academic environments.
Geometry

Geometry

Geometry is a vital tool for structural analysis and spatial reasoning, two fields I work in regularly as a Mechanical Engineer. I help students master geometric theorems and proofs by connecting them to practical applications in design and engineering. My approach moves students away from rote memorization and toward a logical understanding of why these properties exist, particularly in trigonometry and coordinate geometry. This conceptual depth is critical for students planning to pursue any STEM-related field in the future.
Interview Prep

Interview Prep

As a Navy Submarine Officer and Nuclear Engineer, I have conducted over 10 technical and behavioral interview boards, assessing candidates for high-stakes roles. I specialize in coaching students through the STAR method and technical storytelling, ensuring they can articulate complex engineering concepts under pressure. I have successfully mentored candidates through military officer accessions, engineering internships, and graduate-level boards by breaking down the interview process into a repeatable, logical framework. My approach focuses on transforming "rote answers" into compelling professional narratives that highlight leadership and technical rigor. I provide students with mock interview sessions and actionable feedback to ensure they feel confident and prepared for fast-paced, high-pressure boards.
Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

I hold both a B.S. and an M.S. in Mechanical Engineering and currently serve as an active duty Nuclear Submarine Officer. My professional background involves the daily application of advanced principles in Statics, Dynamics, and Fluid Mechanics to safely manage and operate complex naval systems. Having completed rigorous graduate and undergraduate coursework at the U.S. Naval Academy and the Naval Postgraduate School, I have a thorough technical mastery of the core engineering curriculum. I focus on teaching students to approach problems from first principles, ensuring they understand the physical logic behind every formula they use.
Physics

Physics

My background as a Submarine Officer demands a rigorous understanding of the physical world, and I bring that same clarity to tutoring. I help students visualize abstract concepts like kinematics, forces, and electromagnetism so the math feels intuitive rather than memorized. My goal is to build your confidence and problem-solving strategy for even the toughest exams.
Prealgebra

Prealgebra

As a Nuclear Engineer with a B.S. and M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, my entire career is built on the fundamentals of mathematics. I specialize in Prealgebra because it is the critical bridge between basic arithmetic and complex algebraic thinking. I help students master core concepts—such as order of operations (PEMDAS), integers, fractions, and variable isolation—so they can enter high school Algebra with confidence rather than anxiety. My goal is to fix the "shaky foundation" that often holds students back in higher-level math.
Precalculus

Precalculus

As a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, I have a deep appreciation for Precalculus as the critical foundation for all advanced engineering math. I spent years applying these mathematical principles to real-world physics problems, from navigation to structural analysis. I specialize in helping students master function analysis, logarithms, and the unit circle, ensuring they are fully prepared for the rigors of Calculus. My goal is to show students how these concepts model the physical world, making the transition to higher-level math much more intuitive.
Public Speaking

Public Speaking

Throughout my career as a Submarine Officer, I have been responsible for delivering high-pressure briefings to senior leadership and training large crews. I specialize in teaching students the art of clear, concise, and persuasive communication, with a specific focus on the "Bottom Line Up Front" (BLUF) methodology. I help students develop both the technical structure of a presentation and the delivery skills needed to speak with confidence in any setting. My background in nuclear engineering allows me to help students translate complex, technical data into accessible and impactful speeches.
SAT Math

SAT Math

Success in high school and standardized testing isn't just about intelligence; it's about the system you use to learn. As a Nuclear Officer, I operate in an environment where structure and attention to detail are paramount. I translate these professional skills into academic coaching for high schoolers, teaching them how to organize their research, manage their time, and build sustainable study habits. For the SAT, I combine this structural approach with targeted content review to ensure students feel prepared, not overwhelmed.
Thermodynamics

Thermodynamics

I have a BS in Mechanical Engineering from the US Naval Academy. I have a MS in Mechanical Engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School. Both degrees involved extensive thermodynamic courses. I am also a Nuclear Submarine Officer who utilizes the principles of thermodynamics during my daily work.
Trigonometry

Trigonometry

Trigonometry is the foundation of navigation and vector analysis, which are core components of my professional life as a Submarine Officer. I help students master SOH-CAH-TOA, the Law of Sines/Cosines, and trigonometric identities by demonstrating how they are used to model waves and physical forces. With both a B.S. and M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, I have a thorough understanding of how these concepts support advanced technical studies. I focus on removing the "mystery" from trigonometry by showing how triangles serve as the fundamental building blocks of the physical world.
Benjamin M.'s Photo

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Response time: 55 minutes

Ratings and Reviews

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5.0 (35 ratings)
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Reviews

Excellent Tutor for Challenging Engineering Courses

Ben has provided fantastic, reliable support for my son in his college Statics and Calc II classes, helping make the material more approachable and manageable. He invites students to share what they're working on in advance, which helps him prepare and, in turn, encourages my son to preview material before sessions. Ben also promptly provides follow-up session notes and resources. Most importantly, he adjusts explanations to how my son learns, explains concepts clearly and patiently, checks for comprehension, and builds real understanding. Highly recommend Ben for college-level math and engineering courses.

Diana, 27 lessons with Benjamin
Tutor responded:

Hi Diana, thank you so much for such a kind review! I’ve really enjoyed working with your son. Subjects like Statics and Calc II are notoriously tough, but his proactive attitude makes them much more approachable. It’s always rewarding to help a student move past rote memorization and really grasp the "why" behind these complex engineering principles. I’m glad the session notes are proving helpful, and I look forward to continuing to build his confidence in these courses!

Knowledgeable and really cares about your goals and is determined to help get you there!

Ben has been patient and very caring since the first day of tutoring. He really wants to get to know you and understand your goals and help get you there. He is also very detailed oriented when it comes to each lesson. He makes sure you understand the material before moving on. Also is very easy when it comes to scheduling lessons. Highly recommend Ben he is great!

Noah, 5 lessons with Benjamin
Tutor responded:

Hi Noah, thank you so much for the kind words! I’ve really enjoyed our sessions diving into the ASVAB math and mechanical concepts. Your dedication to truly grasping the "why" behind the problems is exactly what leads to success on the exam and beyond. I’m always happy to keep our scheduling flexible to fit your needs. Keep up the hard work - we’ll get you to those goals!

Excellent Math Tutor. Highly Recommended

I had a great experience working with ben, He was extremely patient, knowledgeable, and took the time to explain each problem in a way that was easy to understand. Concepts that once felt confusing became much clear, and my confidence improved significantly with every session. Ben was encouraging, supportive, and always made sure I understood the material before moving on. I would highly recommend Ben to anyone who needs help strengthening their math skill.

Jose, 2 lessons with Benjamin
Tutor responded:

Thank you, Jose! I really appreciate the kind words. You put in serious effort to break down those math concepts, and seeing your confidence grow was the highlight of our sessions. I am proud of the progress you made in such a short time - good luck with the next steps in your Army career!

Ben is awesome!

After only a few meeting with Ben my understanding of AP chemistry as greatly increased with my overall grade increasing as well. He is able to break big concepts down to make them easier to understand and always comes super prepared and ready to help. I've tried other tutors but Ben is the best by far!

Quinn, 10 lessons with Benjamin
Tutor responded:

Thank you so much, Quinn! It has been a privilege helping you navigate the complexities of AP Chemistry. Seeing you take those difficult concepts and turn them into a 90 on your test is exactly why I love tutoring - you put in the hard work, and the results speak for themselves. I’m looking forward to helping you crush the rest of the semester!

Ben is awesome!

After only a few meeting with Ben my understanding of AP chemistry as greatly increased with my overall grade increasing as well. He is able to break big concepts down to make them easier to understand and always comes super prepared and ready to help. I've tried other tutors but Ben is the best by far!

Quinn, 10 lessons with Benjamin

Detail Oriented, Knowledgeable, Thorough Prep to Ensure Best Instruction

Ben is actively tutoring my son in High School Algebra II with active realization in significant improvement after just a few sessions. Ben is provided the class syllabus and proactively uses it to complete problems himself ahead of time, so that he is familiar with the current course module of instruction; this active prep significantly adds value to the tutor session. We appreciate his preparation and delivery of instruction via a caring and patient demeanor.

Jeff, 8 lessons with Benjamin
Tutor responded:

Thanks for the kind words, Jeff! It’s been a pleasure tutoring your son. I’m thrilled with the progress we've made in just a few sessions and look forward to continuing our work together on Algebra II!

Life-saver

Ben is a life-saver. If you are looking for support for Chemistry, Ben is patient, easy to understand, and genuinely committed to your success. To help me, he requested information ahead of my sessions. He clearly prepared for the session, then worked at my pace through the problems, making sure I left the session with a solid understanding of the information. He was available at all the times when I needed him. He even offered to make time if needed. He is a USNA graduate, so I recommend him if you’re at USNA and seeking support.

Peggy, 9 lessons with Benjamin
Tutor responded:

Thank you, Emma! I am really glad to hear that my preparation helped us maximize our time. Having been through the Academy myself, I know how intense the workload can get, so I’m happy I could be flexible and help you tackle Chemistry with confidence. Keep up the hard work!

Hourly Rate: $60
Response time: 55 minutes
Contact Benjamin