The RDL Competition is designed to engage students in hands-on, student-centered learning, fostering essential skills for the 21st Century workforce. This year's challenge revolves around problem solving and creating innovative solutions centered around the American mining industry. 

Teams in this challenge have partnered with with bio-mining experts to address environmental issues caused by the affects of hazardous mining activities that threaten all populations and communities worldwide. Instead of relying on hazardous processes, teams are tasked with researching and developing improved methods to help relieve stressed areas. Drones will play a crucial role in mapping the land, taking water samples, and more, while robots will handle tasks such as ordnance detonation, cyber hacking, waterline repair, and much more. 

A strong emphasis on computer science programming is central to RDL, with drones and robots executing complex tasks. Students will collaborate to create complex algorithms and code for autonomous drone and robot operations.

The RDL Competition aligns with educational standards such as the Partnership for 21st Century Learning (P21), Common Core, International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE), and Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).

The Annual Conference is the single largest gathering of the year for ASEE members. For many who attend, it is their best opportunity to share their individual and collective work in engineering education. Whether as part of a formal session or by meeting friends at a social event or in the hallway, participants benefit from opportunities to share with, learn from, inspire, and be inspired by others.

The MATE ROV Competition World Championship is heading north in 2026 to Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada—where rugged coastlines, rich maritime heritage, and cutting-edge innovation collide! 

As one of the world's most storied ocean regions, Newfoundland and Labrador offers the perfect backdrop for this global gathering of underwater robotics talent. With a deep connection to marine science, exploration, and technology, the province provides a unique setting to inspire the next generation of ocean problem-solvers!