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Film-Ocean backs Scotland's next generation of subsea engineers
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We recently sponsored the 2026 MATE ROV Scotland Regional as a central pillar of our Corporate Social Responsibility programme.
The event was hosted by Robert Gordon University (RGU) and took place on 15th April on the RGU campus in Aberdeen. It represents the only European qualifying heat of the global Marine Advanced Technology Education (MATE) underwater robotics competition.
The competition challenges secondary school pupils from across Scotland to design, build, and pilot their own Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs). Missions are modelled on real-world subsea engineering scenarios, developing skills in marine robotics, electronics, software, and engineering communication. The Scotland Regional has a strong track record of producing teams that go on to compete at the MATE World Championship, making it one of the most significant STEM outreach events in the country.
There was no shortage of skill and creativity on display, but it was the team from Keith Grammar School who took the top prize. They will now represent Scotland at the MATE ROV World Championship in Canada — a fantastic achievement and very well deserved.
As a main sponsor, our involvement extended beyond financial support. We made our deepwater test tank facility in Ellon, Aberdeenshire available to all participating school teams ahead of the competition. This gave students a professional environment in which to trial and refine their ROV designs before the event.
Our Technical Support Engineers, Michael Hetherington and Mike Rae, also volunteered on the day. They contributed as judges, mentors, and technical supporters alongside the wider volunteer community that underpins the competition.
Following the event, we identified a practical need for poolside safety equipment and are donating a supply of shoe coverings to the organisers, supporting the smooth running of future competitions. Looking further ahead, we are in discussions with more local schools to offer direct access to our test pool, workshop, and equipment. Our aim is to support pupils in their preparation for future MATE ROV events and broader STEM activities.
Our Operations Director, Mike Mackie, said:
"Scotland's offshore and subsea industries depend on a strong pipeline of skilled engineers, and events like the MATE ROV Regional play a vital role in building that pipeline. As a company rooted in subsea expertise, we feel a genuine responsibility to invest in the people who will define this industry in the years ahead. We are proud to be a main sponsor and enjoyed seeing the talent on display at the event."
To read more Film-Ocean company and team news, visit our Media Room, or check out our LinkedIn page.
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