Building an ROV (remotely operated vehicle) is more than just connecting parts and powering up—it’s about mastering core skills that will set you up for success in engineering, problem-solving, and innovation. Whether you’re new to the world of underwater robotics or sharpening your expertise for the next competition, these essential skills will help you level up your builds this year.
As a new school year begins, there’s no better time to bring hands-on, real-world STEM learning into your classroom — and SeaMATE’s AngelFish ROV kit is the perfect way to do it.
Looking to bring more excitement, hands-on learning, and real-world STEM skills into your classroom this year? The MATE ROV program is here to help you dive into the new school year with purpose and creativity—whether you're just getting started or looking to level up your robotics and engineering curriculum.
ALPENA, MICHIGAN – July 17, 2025 – Innovation, teamwork, and technical excellence took center stage as 77 student teams from 17 countries gathered at the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary for the 2025 MATE ROV Competition World Championship.
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!
