Robotics competitions and professional societies: How do we improve the workforce readiness of our students?

Effectively preparing students for the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) workforce is a challenge. One way that the MATE Center has found to be successful is through its ROV (remotely operated vehicle) competitions. Developed in partnership with the Marine Technology Society (MTS), these competitions provide students with a learning experience that simulates the STEM workplace. The competitions challenge students to work through the engineering design process, developing technical, teamwork, creative thinking, and problem solving skills along the way. The competitions allow students of all ages to interact and learn from each other as well as from the industry professionals who serve as judges and technical support. It is the involvement of these technical professionals, many through professional societies like MTS, that have allowed the MATE Center to expand the reach and impact of the competition program.