Alpena Community College’s Aquajacks delivered a standout performance at the 2025 MATE ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) World Championship, earning third place in the Pioneer Class and showcasing the power of applied learning in underwater robotics. The international competition, hosted in late June at the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary in Alpena, brought together nearly 80 teams from 22 U.S. states and 18 countries.
MATE competitions challenge students to design, build, and operate ROVs capable of performing tasks like inspecting shipwrecks, deploying scientific instruments, and maintaining offshore infrastructure.
Mentored by instructor David Cummins, the ACC’s Aquajacks used a custom-adapted vehicle utilizing a kit donated by MATE as a jumping off point. The team's success stemmed from skills developed through Alpena’s Industrial Technology programs, which blends mechanical, electrical, and software disciplines in a hands-on curriculum.
The MATE ROV championship is more than a technical competition; it’s a real-world simulation that demands students excel in communication, budgeting, project management, and innovation.
Hosting the championship brought a surge of attention and energy to Alpena. More than 1,200 participants and visitors filled the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center and Alpena Community College, putting the spotlight on Northeast Michigan’s growing status as a hub for marine and industrial technology education.
“The sanctuary is an amazing resource within our community and continues to attract world‑class opportunities for students,” said Daniel Moffatt, Education Specialist at Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary. “The fact that our regional teams performed exceptionally well and were able to showcase their home to the world of underwater robotics is an extremely powerful experience.”
As underwater robotics becomes increasingly vital to environmental research, infrastructure inspection, and offshore energy, programs like ACC’s are building the skilled workforce to lead those sectors. These skills will be put to the test once more as The Aquajacks look ahead to next year’s championship in Newfoundland.
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