Martin Klein, a pioneer in commercial side scan sonar technology and ocean exploration, has served as a judge at the MATE International and New England Regional ROV Competitions since 2003. 

As part of his dedication to nurturing the new generation of marine technologists, Martin (Marty) established the Martin Klein MATE MARINER Award. This award is presented at each international competition to the individual or team that demonstrates an appreciation for the practical applications of their knowledge and skills; a genuine interest in the competition mission; a penchant for a lifetime interest in the field of marine science and technology; and exceptional passion - not just for winning but for the entire competition process. 

The winner receives a $1,000 scholarship check and a medal engraved with one of Marty's favorite sayings: "Always ask how we can do this better."

Long-time competition sponsor Oceaneering International is sponsoring Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) awards to recognize teams for exemplary safety practices. 

Additional details will follow, but to help teams prepare, the company is graciously sharing its HSE Employee Handbook. This handbook is distributed to all Oceaneering employees who are required to read and put into practice the information that it contains. 

Competition teams are encouraged to read this, too, paying particular attention to the following sections (sections that are important and relevant to the HSE awards):

• Chapter 1 - Housekeeping
• Chapter 9 - Hand Safety
• Chapter 11 - Lifting and back safety
• Chapter 12 - PPE
• Chapter 17 - Tool Safety
• Chapter 24 - Electrical Safety
• Chapter 29 - Employee Observation Program
• Chapter 33 - JSEA
• Chapter 37 - Working at Other Sites

This prestigious award recognizes the exceptional skills and dedication of two students piloting their team to success at the MATE World Championship. The recipients of this award have demonstrated outstanding aptitude in adapting to the unique challenges of ROV piloting, showcasing remarkable precision and consistency in their operations. Much like the Oceaneering ROV Pilots, their ability to navigate complex underwater environments, troubleshoot on-the-fly, and maintain high standards of performance under varying conditions sets them apart as leaders in their field. This award celebrates their excellence, resilience, and commitment to advancing the capabilities of ROV technology. 

This award is presented to an individual or team that demonstrates enthusiasm, encouragement and has the best team apparel. 

This award is given to an individual or team that overcame hardships with determination and resolve. 

This one's for the bold brains who channel chaos into brilliance. Inspired by the legendary founders, this award honors teams that break the mold, bend the rules (in a good way), and bring wild, original ideas to life. It's not just innovation - it's legacy-level innovation. If your build made people say, "Wait....can they do that?" - this one's for you. 

In honor of Crockett Wise, founder of the Team Orlando Robotic Club (TORC) and technical assistant at both the Florida Regional and the International ROV competitions.  Awarded to a team or individual who demonstrates courtesy, kindness, and professionalism and assists other teams, providing technical as well as moral support.