Underwater Robotics World Championship Returns to Northern Michigan

NOAA Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary in Alpena will be host to the 2025 MATE ROV World Championships, an underwater robotics competition that brings together students, educators, professional and marine industry experts from around the world. Scheduled for June, 2025, the event expects to bring over 1,000 guests from 15 countries to Northern Michigan. It’s been over a decade since Alpena hosted the underwater remotely operated vehicle contest. 

“More than 10 years later, we’re thrilled to be bringing the MATE World Championship back to Alpena!  The warm and welcoming community, the support and enthusiasm, and the facilities and expertise at TBNMS make this an ideal spot for our global community of learners to showcase their technology innovations, teamwork, and tenacity.  We’re excited to be coming here next June and to be highlighting the Great Lakes!” says Jill Zande, MATE executive director.