Wired for Robotics: My Journey to Bath

I’ve been fascinated by robotics since an early age. Particularly, how it unites diverse fields like computer science, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering. I knew I wanted to pursue a degree that would allow me to explore these disciplines in depth. The BEng (Hons) in Robotics Engineering at Bath was the perfect fit.

Joining Team Bath Hydrobotics

While studying for my degree, I had the opportunity to join Team Bath Hydrobotics. The student-led team designs and builds Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs). These underwater robots address marine challenges like infrastructure inspection, environmental monitoring, and marine debris removal.

Working on the ROV challenged the team to innovate and integrate engineering disciplines. It was also an opportunity to apply what we learnt in lectures in a practical setting.

One of the most rewarding parts of the experience was being part of a truly supportive and collaborative team. Over the year, we built a close-knit community. We celebrated each other’s achievements and supported each other’s personal development. It was especially inspiring to see team members who lacked confidence grow into capable and dependable contributors, taking on responsibility and thriving in their roles.

Leading the project

During my time with Team Bath Hydrobotics, I had the privilege of serving as the team’s CEO. In this role, I led the project from the first planning stages through to competition. I oversaw all aspects of the project including setting Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to track progress, managing the mechanical, electronics, software, and controls sub-teams, and looking after the team’s budget. I also worked with university staff to secure funding, resources, and workspaces.

This experience strengthened my leadership, decision-making, and time management skills. It taught me to stay composed under pressure and communicate effectively across diverse fields. This was all while balancing academic commitments. Leading a multidisciplinary team reinforced the importance of leading by example, whether making key decisions, supporting others, or stepping in where needed. It deepened my confidence in managing funding proposals and navigating the practical challenges of delivering a large, complex project.

Competing on a world stage

In 2025, we successfully built and qualified an ROV to compete in the Marine Advanced Technology Education (MATE) ROV World Championship. This was the first time for three years Team Hydrobotics had achieved this, and it marked a major milestone for us. We were on our way to attend the international finals in Alpena, Michigan, US.

For the 2025 MATE competition, our ROV had to complete critical missions, such as the documentation of historic shipwrecks in the Great Lakes. The tasks needed:

• precise underwater navigation
• complex manipulation
• real-time data collection
• an intuitive pilot interface
  

Despite having limited prior experience, we showed strong organisation and technical capabilities throughout the project.

What I enjoyed most was being part of the MATE ROV Competition community. Teams from around the world came together with shared passion and a genuine spirit of collaboration. We formed friendships with participants from Mexico, California, Scotland, and Italy. It made the experience both culturally and professionally rewarding. When a team from Oregon encountered issues with their ROV cameras, we helped them troubleshoot. In appreciation, they invited us to their BBQ, where we celebrated birthdays together, including one of our own teammates.

Unfortunately, due to a shipping delay, our ROV did not arrive in time for the scored events. While this was disappointing, it did not stop us from fully taking part. We confidently presented our technical documentation and marketing materials. We engaged with the international community and took every opportunity to learn and connect.

Planning is already underway for our 2026 campaign. We are driven by a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to come back stronger than ever.

From Hydrobotics to horizons

During my time with Team Bath Hydrobotics, I built a broad foundation of technical and transferable skills. I strengthened my knowledge of system integration, electronics design, mechanical safety standards, and engineering documentation. I gained valuable experience applying these skills within a collaborative, project-based environment.

After graduation, I intend to pursue a career in marine engineering or AI development, building on this experience and applying my skills to industry challenges. Long-term, I aim to develop the expertise and professional network needed to set up my own business. I want to contribute practical and innovative solutions that create value in the market.