The MATE (Marine Advanced Technology Education) ROV Competition is an underwater robotics challenge focused on ocean-based solutions, problem solving, and conservation.
This year, inspired by fresh and saltwater alike, MATE challenges participants to use their engineering skills and creativity to design an ROV (remotely operated vehicle) to discover the effects of climate change and maintain research on our ocean planets ecosystems.
Visit the MATE ROV Competition website to learn more.
GEARS is honored to be attending the upcoming 2025 MATE ROV World Championship! Cheer us on as we represent the Northern Gulf Coast this coming June 19-21 in Alpena, Michigan.
Visit the MATE website for more information on the 2025 World Championship, and the MATE Twitch page for championship livestreams!
Teams must use their ROVs to correctly identify shipwreck types and create a 360 photosphere image of the shipwreck environment.
Teams use their ROVs to safely collect jellyfish at different stages of development.
Teams use their ROVs to repair and maintain offshore windfarms and solar panel arrays.
Teams use eDNA data to track and graph Asian Carp as they progress through the Great Lakes.
Inspired by the USF funded GO-BGC Project, teams monitor ocean health by designing and constructing a vertical profilling float.
Made up of nine students from grades 7-12, the GEARS (General Engineering And ROV Specialists) ROV team is a homeschool robotics group in the “Ranger” class of MATE.
Established in 2023, the team strives to create effective ROVs through quality engineering while developing skills in leadership, creativity, and problem-solving.
GEARS was tasked with designing and constructing an ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) versatile enough to fulfill tasks related to oceanic and environmental challenges faced by researchers worldwide. Our team examined the problems associated with creating a single robot that can multitask across multiple scenarios and meticulously developed, refined, and assembled our newest robot, the Vaquita 3.0.
Designed to address all challenges outlined by MATE efficiently, the Vaquita 3.0 is equipped with several key features to ensure its success. These features include six powerful Blue Robotics thrusters allowing smooth mobility and amplified speed, a specialized claw with enhanced dexterity, and a high-definition camera providing increased visibility. Backed by skilled engineers, our robot is capable of aiding in various real-world environmental challenges, such as monitoring climate impact and protecting endangered ecosystems.