COMPETITION OVERVIEW

The MATE Center and the Marine Technology Society’s ROV Committee coordinate an underwater robotics (remotely operated vehicle or ROV) competition that includes an international event and a network of regional contests that take place around the world.  Students from elementary through college level are welcome to participate in the competition, which includes four different “classes” of vehicles that vary depending on their complexity and the task requirements. 

Each year employers (industry, businesses, government agencies, and research organizations) and working professionals contribute to the event by donating funds, building materials, equipment, and facilities in support of the teams competing in both the international and the regional events.  Working professionals also volunteer their time and technical expertise as mentors, technical assistants, and competition judges. 

COMPETITION GOALS

The MATE Center uses underwater robots as a way to get students excited about science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) and help them to see the practical applications of these subjects.  In this way, the MATE Center is working to encourage and motivate students to study STEM and pursue careers in ocean STEM fields. 

Specifically, the MATE competition’s goals are to: 

  • Increase the awareness and visibility of marine technical fields, educational and career opportunities, and potential employers.
  • Help students develop the skills necessary to enter careers in technical fields.  These skills include the ability to problem solve, think critically, troubleshoot, communicate effectively, and manage projects.  These also include entrepreneurial skills – the ability to see the “bigger picture” context of their work and to tackle problems in creative and innovative ways.  In addition, students develop interpersonal skills as they work together to solve problems and overcome challenges.
  • Connect students and educators with employers and working professionals.  Working professionals have the opportunity to share their knowledge and experience as team mentors, complementing what the students are learning in the classroom.  Students can explore potential careers.  Employers are able to evaluate students as potential employees.  
  • Increase students’ understanding of the role that ROVs play in science and industry.