Whether you’re new to STEM, just getting into marine robotics, or looking for hands-on ways to learn, this page is a launchpad. These are the things that helped me get started — and I hope they help you, too. Pick something, try it, mess it up, fix it, and see where it takes you.
There are so many free resources online — and honestly, it can feel overwhelming. But watching someone break things down in a fun, visual way is a great place to start. These are a few of my favorites that made engineering feel less scary and way more exciting. It’s totally okay if it all feels confusing at first. You don’t need to know everything to begin — you just need to be curious.
Get your hands on something- that's how it really clicks!
Create real electronic circuits with colorful, snap-together pieces. Great for hands-on learners and younger students just getting into STEM.
Engineering kits by Mark Rober that let you build monthly inventions and learn how they work. Perfect for curious minds who like to tinker.
A totally free online platform to learn coding, web development, data science, and more — from beginner-friendly to advanced.
Learn how to program and wire real electronic projects using sensors, lights, and motors. A solid intro to embedded systems and prototyping.
https://store.arduino.cc/products/arduino-starter-kit-multi-language
Before you build anything, spend some time seeing what’s possible. There’s a huge community of hobbyists, students, and pros who share their projects, designs, and hard-earned lessons online. Start there — it’s one of the best ways to learn.
I’m a big fan of Blue Robotics and everything they do to make marine tech more accessible and educational. This page is a great intro to the world of marine robotics — from ROVs and AUVs to the tools and missions they support. If you’re new to the field, definitely check out the full page.
A goldmine of technical advice, troubleshooting help, and ROV design discussions. Search anything — chances are someone else has tried it before.
Even if you don’t compete, check out the project galleries. Teams all over the world post creative ROV solutions — from basic builds to advanced autonomous systems.
A good intro:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mB9pgqpgeQQ
See what Underwater Robots can do:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pWy8womUPKY
Also check out Blue Robitics on Youtube in their Subsea Stem Category
These guides walk you through different types of underwater vehicles — from simple, low-cost builds to more advanced designs with motors and cameras. Pick one that fits your tools, time, and curiosity level. There’s no “right” place to start — just start.
PDF guide with basic design ideas, simple materials, schematics. Great if you want a low‑cost intro project.
A detailed build with parts list, step‑by‑step instructions including thrusters, lights, controller, camera, frame, etc. Great if you want a full‑feature ROV and aren't afraid of coding or drilling.
Uses a Raspberry Pi Pico, film canisters or 3D printed floatation, simple motors, basic controller. Great for building skills.
https://www.raspberrypi.com/news/build-a-tiny-open-source-underwater-vehicle/
Lessos from building, breaking, and fixing things underwater.
Seal your electronics wel! Then double check.
There's nothing better than trial and error.
Failing is inevitable and necessary. Every mistake gets you one step closer to a solution. Don't be afraid to mess up. That’s how real engineering happens.
Phoebe Underwater
They make me use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting the use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.