Remotely Operated Vehicles

Remotely Operated Vehicles Committee

The purpose of the ROV Committee is to promote the interchange of technical information among industrial, academic, defense and other organizations on an international basis in the areas of ROVs, undersea robotics and artificial intelligence; to provide speakers to academic institutions, to increase the participation of students in the society and areas of ROV and undersea technology; and to produce technical publications related to ROV technology.

In the Field: The 2025 MTS ROV Photo Challenge Powered By the MTS ROV Committee (NOW LIVE)

The MTS ROV Photo Challenge is a new initiative launched by the Marine Technology Society (MTS) ROV Committee, a group dedicated to advancing the development, application, and understanding of Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) across all sectors - from commercial offshore operations and academic research to military and government missions. 

This challenge is open to everyone in the ROV community and is about celebrating the real-world work of ROVs - the grit, innovation, and teamwork that drive marine technology forward. Whether your ROV is exploring offshore depths, being tested in a lab, or being built from scratch by a student team, we want to spotlight the moments that reflect the current state of ROV technology and capture the essence of this rapidly evolving industry. #MTSROVlife

Entries Open: August 15, 2025
Deadline to Submit: October 31, 2025

Learn More & Submit
Visit the ROV Website

Leadership

Chair: Robert ‘Bob’ Christ | [email protected]

Bob has a Bachelor’s Degree in both Aviation and Accounting from Louisiana Tech University. He is a FAA-licensed Airline Transport Pilot as well as a Certified Public Accountant (currently inactive). He is a co-founder of VideoRay, a micro-ROV manufacturer, and in 2003 co-founded SeaTrepid. Bob also co-authored “The ROV Manual” along with Bob Wernli (now in its second edition).

Vice-Chair: Nancy Summers

Nancy Summers is a Field Engineer with Oceaneering Int. She began her subsea career in 1997 as a Tender and then a Diver in the Gulf of Mexico. She expanded into ROV’s and then AUV’s before a transfer to the East coast brought her back to Hyperbarics working with the Navy’s Submarine Rescue System.

Treasurer: Susie Ward

Susie has been involved with the oil and gas industry for over 30 years. Her journey has taken her from a secretary to an international crewing manager and HR director.  She has been involved with the MATE ROV program as a Runner and then Missions Judge.