Hosted in Alpena, Michigan, at the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, this global competition empowers students to design, build, and deploy ROVs to tackle real-world challenges.
As the 2025 World Championship approaches, the pressure builds—and so does the potential for unexpected ROV issues. That’s why being prepared for last-minute fixes can make all the difference between a smooth performance and a scramble on the pool deck. Whether you’re a veteran team or diving into your first MATE ROV Competition, having a solid plan (and the right tools) ensures your vehicle stays mission-ready under pressure.
Just because the competition season is over doesn’t mean the underwater adventures have to stop! Summer is the perfect time for students to dive deeper into STEM by continuing to explore and experiment with their SeaMATE ROV kits. These tools open the door to hands-on learning all summer long.
Spring is the perfect time to fine-tune your ROV and get ready for upcoming competitions and challenges! Whether you're a brand-new team or a seasoned competitor, we're here to help with expert advice, essential upgrades, and troubleshooting tips.
During the summer of 2023, TBMS (Thunderbay Marine Sanctuary) and GLORAL presented Underwater Research Robotics (UR2) with an environmental challenge: water acidification. They tasked UR2 with engineering a subsurface vehicle to collect water samples and monitor pH levels. During this process, they discovered a significant gap in research and awareness, particularly in freshwater systems.
Get a head start on the 2025-2026 school year by creating your classroom wishlist today! Planning ahead ensures you have the tools and resources needed to inspire and engage your students from day one. Whether it’s hands-on kits, new technology, or essential classroom supplies, building your wishlist early helps you stay organized and take advantage of grants, funding opportunities, and back-to-school discounts. Start dreaming big now so you’re ready to dive into another year of learning and discovery!
At MATE, longevity and reusability are key commitments in marine technology education. With SeaMATE kits, students and educators can engage in hands-on learning while making the most of their materials. Designed for repeat use and easy adaptation, SeaMATE kits offer a practical approach to underwater robotics. Below, we explore the durable features of each kit and share ideas for repurposing parts after project completion.
For educators looking to bring hands-on STEM learning into their classrooms, the SeaMATE Store offers a range of ROV kits that make engineering and marine technology accessible and engaging. This month, we’re highlighting “Teacher Picks” from two experienced educators who regularly use SeaMATE products to inspire the next generation of problem solvers and innovators.
Happy New Year! We are excited to announce that registration is now open for the 2025 MATE ROV Competition season - starting with our World Championship event taking place June 19-21, 2025.
Happy Holidays from Team MATE!
