This summer, Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy made its debut in the MATE ROV (Marine Advanced Technology Education Remotely Operated Vehicle) competition — an international event that challenges students to design and build underwater robots capable of performing complex mission tasks. Hosted at the Thunder Bay Marine Sanctuary in Alpena, Michigan, the competition drew some of the most talented young engineers from around the world.
Representing HPA was Mana Robotics, a team of dedicated students who designed and built their flagship ROV, Ulua. Using a mix of purchased Blue Robotics components and custom-fabricated parts, including a 3D-printed manipulator claw, the team tackled both engineering and logistics: project management, budgeting, safety, and professional-level technical documentation.
For the students, though, the highlight was the experience itself. Traveling from Hawai‘i to Michigan, they tested their skills against some of the best student engineering teams in the world. Along the way, they built deep friendships, learned from peers and mentors, and discovered just how far their creativity and perseverance could take them. It was a powerful reminder that innovation, teamwork, and aloha can carry them anywhere.
Conor ’26, founder and lead designer for the MATE ROV team, reflected on what makes the competition so distinctive: “The challenge of building a robot that can perform tasks underwater adds layers and layers of complexity you don’t find in other robotics competitions. Because of its uniqueness, it has created a collection of very driven students who love this niche engineering challenge. It is an amazing opportunity to meet like-minded individuals, and I have met some fantastic people from across the world during my time at MATE.”
Students at work in HPA's Engineering Shed
A Space for Creativity
Behind the team’s success is the newly revitalized Engineering Shed, which has become a lively hub of activity on campus. Outfitted with new workstations and tools, the shed gives students room to experiment, collaborate, and bring bold ideas to life.
“I would describe the engineering shed as restless, not in a hectic way, but more lively and bustling,” Conor explains. “Our MATE team is not the only group in there, so there are always people doing really unique and interesting projects, from jewelry making to battlebots, and so much more. It creates a really inspiring environment and is a great place to channel your creativity.”
HPA’s robotics story stretches back decades, from Solar Decathlon competitions in the 1970s to today’s underwater robotics challenges. With a revitalized Engineering Shed, a growing robotics program at both the Village and Upper Campuses, HPA continues to lead the charge for bold, hands-on engineering education.