From Inspiration to Innovation: How MTS and MATE Foster the Future of the Ocean Technical Workforce  

The story of how a student’s dream became a reality through the power of connection 

Earlier this month, the Marine Technology Society (MTS) and Oceaneering hosted the 32nd Annual MTS/Oceaneering Symposium at the Oceaneering facility in Hanover, Maryland. What began as an afternoon of discussions on maritime innovation turned into a profound testament to the power of mentorship, connection, and how MTS and MATE are shaping the next generation of ocean leaders.

The event kicked off with a captivating panel discussion on innovations in the maritime industry. The panel, composed of prominent leaders like Lisa Blodgett, Fabien Cousteau, Daniel Redmon, Kurt Rothenhaus, and Jeremy Weirich, sparked insightful conversations about the future of marine technology. Their expertise and forward-thinking ideas set the tone for a night of inspiration, by highlighting advancements in unmanned systems, AI, green technologies, and international collaboration to enhance security, operational efficiency, and sustainability in maritime operations.

While the panel discussion was a highlight, it was a personal story of connection that stole the spotlight. Adithya Selvakumar, a former MATE ROV Competition competitor and current MTS member, attended the event not only to represent the MATE competition and MTS but also to expand his professional network. Little did he know that he would be introduced to a figure who had unknowingly shaped his career path—Fabien Cousteau. Years earlier, a young Adithya was inspired to pursue a career in ocean technology after hearing Fabien speak at his middle school. Fast forward to the present, and Adithya, now a sophomore at the University of Pennsylvania, had the opportunity to meet his childhood inspiration face-to-face.

This moment encapsulates the essence of what MTS and the MATE ROV Competition aim to achieve—providing a platform where aspiring marine technologists can connect with their role models, gain practical experience, and build networks that propel them toward success.

Adithya Selvakumar’s journey in marine technology began with the MATE ROV Competition, where he spent six years honing skills in underwater robotics. His passion for the field led him to develop his own robotics team, which placed second in the 2023 MATE ROV Competition World Championship. Today, Adithya is pursuing a dual degree in Physics and Electrical Engineering through the prestigious Vagelos Integrated Program in Energy Research (VIPER) at the University of Pennsylvania. His research focuses on areas such as soft robotics and deep learning, with an emphasis on underwater robotics, renewable energy in the marine environment, and robotic control systems.

Now an MTS EMERGE Program participant, Adithya credits MTS with providing him with the resources and network needed to continue his journey. “I’d like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Marine Technology Society for my acceptance into the EMERGE Program,” he said. “I am humbled by the faith MTS has placed in me, and over the coming year, I hope to broaden my research interests, network with other ocean professionals, and share my enthusiasm for the future of marine technology.”

The story of Adithya’s journey reflects a key aspect of MTS’s mission: to inspire and support the next generation of ocean professionals. The integration of the MATE ROV Competition into the MTS community supports the pipeline between talented students and a workforce that needs their skillsets. Students like Adithya are introduced to marine technology through the MATE ROV Competition, then brought into the MTS community, where they gain access to valuable resources, networking opportunities, and mentorship.

As the evening at the MTS/Oceaneering Symposium came to a close, it became clear that moments like these are what define MTS. It’s about creating spaces where inspiration meets opportunity and where the next generation of ocean professionals can thrive. This is just one of the many reasons MTS and MATE decided to join forces. Through fostering these connections, we ensure that the future of marine technology is bright, driven by young innovators like Adithya Selvakumar who are equipped to tackle the challenges of tomorrow’s oceans.