"Reflecting on my experiences since the MATE ROV competition, I am amazed at how that pivotal event set the trajectory for my career. It inspired me to pursue my passion relentlessly, leading me to the forefront of marine technology and engineering. As I look to the future, I am excited to continue making meaningful contributions to the field and leaving a lasting impact on underwater exploration and beyond."
What year(s) did you participate in the MATE ROV Competition?
2018, 2019, 2020, 2021
What was the name of your MATE ROV team(s)?
Hawks Engineering
What is your favorite MATE memory?
The 2019 MATE ROV World Championship held in Kingsport, TN was an unforgettable experience, buzzing with excitement and energy from teams representing various countries and regions. As an enthusiastic participant, I was part of a diverse and passionate group of students eager to showcase our ROVs capabilities and compete on a global stage. Though my teams ROV didn't function properly, my teammate Vanessa and I still had a blast networking with other teams and competition staff. I remember speaking to a handful of teams from around the globe, as well as SEAL Robotics. To this day, I still have communication with them. Oh! I remember our trip to Kingsport Dam as well, though it was raining, it was a great way to conclude our competition trip. I will never forget collaborating with a team from China during the secret task mission. Driving their vehicle inspired the development of my team's 2020 ROV (that never got to see the world championship due to COVID-19).
Share something you learned by participating in MATE.
From participating in the MATE ROV Competition, I learned a multitude of valuable lessons that extended far beyond technical skills. The journey of building an ROV had its fair share of setbacks and challenges. I learned the importance of resilience and perseverance in the face ob adversity. Every setback was an opportunity to learn and improve, pushing me to keep going even when the going got tough.
What does MATE mean to you?
Participating in the MATE ROV Competition was a transformative experience that gave me invaluable insight into the field of ocean engineering. From the moment I joined my team and got involved in designing and building our remotely operated vehicle, I was captivated by the challenges and possibilities that the underwater world presented. As I participated in the different stages of the competition, including regional and national events, I witnessed firsthand how the industry professionals and mentors shared their expertise with us. Their guidance and encouragement inspired me to dig deeper into ocean engineering and explore the endless possibilities that lay ahead. The MATE ROV Competition not only enriched my technical knowledge but also fostered important soft skills such as teamwork, communication, and adaptability. These skills proved essential in navigating the fast-paced and collaborative nature of the field.
Ultimately, the experience of the MATE ROV Competition played a significant role in shaping my career path. The exposure to ocean engineering, coupled with my passion for making a positive impact on the marine environment, solidified my decision to pursue a career in this field. Whether it be designing underwater robotics, contributing to environmental research, or developing sustainable solutions for the maritime industry, I knew that ocean engineering was the path where my skills and passion aligned.
What advice do you have to offer currents MATE participants?
To current MATE participants, I offer the following advice to make the most of your experience and excel in the competition:
- Have fun and network: Enjoy the experience! The MATE ROV Competition is an excellent opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, professionals, and potential future colleagues. Network and make the most of the relationships you build during the competition. The connections you make can lead to many opportunities. Hence where I've gotten many of my work offers from.
- Stay resilient and adaptable: The competition may present unexpected challenges, but it's crucial to stay resilient and adaptable. Learn to adjust your strategies and problem-solving approaches when needed.
- Embrace the learning process: The MATE ROV Competition is not just about winning; it's about the journey of learning and exploration. Embrace the challenges, setbacks, and successes as opportunities for growth. Learn from your mistakes and continuously improve your design and problem-solving skills.
Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?
In 5-10 years, I envision myself thriving in a fulfilling career within the field of marine technology and engineering. My aspiration is to work alongside a prominent company that specializes in the development of Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) and Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs). I see myself contributing my expertise and skills to innovative projects that push the boundaries of underwater exploration and research. As I immerse myself in this dynamic industry, I am determined to obtain a pilot's license for ROV operation, allowing me to take on a more hands-on role in guiding these sophisticated machines beneath the waves.
Feel free to share any other information you'd like!
Participating in the MATE ROV Competition ignited my passion for underwater robotics and ocean exploration. The experience opened my eyes to the vast potential of ROVs and their significance in advancing marine technology. It was this profound inspiration that led me to seek out a college that offered opportunities to be part of an underwater vehicle competition. Choosing Ohio State University proved to be the perfect decision, as I became actively involved in their autonomous underwater vehicle team that competes in RoboNation's Robosub competition. Over the past three years, I've had the privilege of working on various exciting projects within the team. As a vice president, I played a crucial role in leading our members and fostering collaboration. Now, as the team's president, I am thrilled to take on even greater responsibilities and continue our journey of innovation and excellence. Working on designing and machining smart batteries for our AUV, crafting a gauss canon for lathed torpedoes, and contributing to chassis design has been both rewarding and challenging, reinforcing my commitment to pursuing a career at the forefront of marine technology and engineering.
Since November 2022, my dedication and passion for marine technology opened doors to the Applied Physics Laboratory in Seattle, Washington. Joining this esteemed institution allowed me to dive even deeper into my field of interest. Focused on increasing DoD capabilities in underwater communications and sensing, I have been working on groundbreaking projects that have the potential to shape the future of marine exploration and national security. Being part of the team at the Applied Physics Laboratory has been an incredible journey, and I am grateful for the opportunity to fabricate transducers, housings, and systems for acoustic systems and naval assets. This work is not only professionally fulfilling but also serves a greater purpose in supporting vital defense efforts and advancing underwater technology.
Reflecting on my experiences since the MATE ROV competition, I am amazed at how that pivotal event set the trajectory for my career. It inspired me to pursue my passion relentlessly, leading me to the forefront of marine technology and engineering. As I look to the future, I am excited to continue making meaningful contributions to the field and leaving a lasting impact on underwater exploration and beyond.