Underwater Robotics Programs

with Atlantis S.T.E.A.M.

Sessions for Grades 2-10

Atlantis S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) is a local non-profit that offers classes in underwater robotics. Learn the basics of R.O.V.’s (Remotely Operated Vehicles) and become familiar with buoyancy, thrusters, and manipulators as well as motor control and electrical circuits. Some classes will provide the opportunity to test ROVs in local waters.

For full class descriptions, visit www.swparks.org/robotics

Instructor: Ash Bystrom,

Location: Atlantis STEAM, 9289 Hwy 525, Clinton (Next to Lincoln Computer on the Highway)

Bring: Lunch, snack, weather appropriate clothing & hat (outdoor classes)

Min 4/Max 8 (except where noted)

Offerings: See summary below, then look further down for detailed info.

  • Underwater Robotics I for Grades 2-4
    • Monday-Friday | July 6-10 | 9am-2pm | Fee $325
  • Underwater Robotics I for Grades 5-7
    • Monday-Friday | July 13-17 | 9am-2pm | Fee $325
  • Underwater Robotics I for Grades 8-10
    • Monday-Friday | July 20-24 | 9am-2pm | Fee $345
  • Underwater Robotics II for Grades 4-10 (or by permission)
    • Monday-Friday | Aug 3-7 | 9am-2pm | Fee $345
  • Plankton vs. Microplastic Quest for Grades 4-10
    • Monday-Friday | Aug 17-21 | 9am-2pm | Fee $375
  • Intro to Competition Underwater Robotics Grades 4-10
    • Monday-Friday | Aug 24-28 | 9am-2pm | Fee $375

Underwater Robotics I – Grades 2-4; Grades 5-7

Build an underwater robot! Working in groups, students will learn the skills of building an underwater robot, or “ROV”, (Remotely Operated Vehicle) as they assemble a practice ROV in class. In addition to learning how to solder wire connections, students will become familiar with thrusters, manipulators, cameras, buoyancy, motor control, and electric circuits.  Students will test the practice ROVs by piloting their robots and completing tasks underwater.

All participants will be expected to follow our “Safety First” protocols, which includes both physical and emotional/psychological safety.

Underwater Robotics I – Grades 8-10

A week specifically for older students who are intrigued by or maybe have done robotics before. (no prior experience necessary, only interest) First, learn the analog parts of robots, learn and select various control systems, and build a simple actuated manipulator. Then expand to how digital and analog bots differ. Then you put that knowledge to practice as you building an underwater robot, or “ROV”, (Remotely Operated Vehicle) you will pilot with cameras. As always, foundational skills of electrical circuits, how to solder & waterproof wire connections, physics, centers of thrust and buoyancy, plus manipulators, cameras, motor control, and power. Students will test the practice ROVs by piloting their robots and completing tasks underwater at the end of the week.

All participants will be expected to follow our “Safety First” protocols, which includes both physical and emotional/psychological safety.

Underwater Robotics II – Grades 4-10

Prerequisite: Underwater Robotics I or permission of Instructor

Building upon their ROV knowledge, students will expand their learning about manipulators, water proofing cameras, joy-stick controllers, and other new skills as they work in groups to develop more sophisticated underwater robots. Students will test their new tools on their practice ROVs by attempting to complete tasks underwater. Some classes may provide the opportunity to identify plankton and micro-plastics, as well as test ROVs in local waters.

Plankton vs Microplastic Quest – Grades 4-10

“Plankton Quest” is an immersive, hands-on educational program designed for 4th-8th graders, merging underwater technology with real-world environmental challenges. Students will be introduced to the fascinating world of underwater robotics as they embark on a scientific mission to explore the waters around Whidbey. This innovative program challenges students to develop and deploy remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), to build plankton nets to obtain samples of the microscopic creatures, then research and identify their finds while creating stunning images of plankton and other marine resources, while also investigating the presence of harmful microplastics in the water. By the end of the program, students will have gained critical skills in robotics, marine biology, and environmental science, while contributing valuable data for the protection of our oceans.

Intro Competition Underwater Robotics – Grades 4-10

This camp is focused on taking a deep dive into what is involved in competitive underwater robotics. Students will get receive hands-on experience in skills building for underwater robotics as well as learn about 3D printing, graphic design, marketing communications, engineering concepts, and ocean science without the pressures of competition. Yes, participants will also be flying underwater robots! All participants will be expected to follow our “Safety First” protocols, which includes both physical and emotional/psychological safety.

Requirement: ENTRY WITH INSTRUCTOR PERMISSION ONLY.

Serious intent to compete on underwater robotics teams during the 2026-2027 school year, this is not for those looking for a camp. For engineering types, Underwater Robotics I is highly suggested, along with experience or a passion for S.T.E.A.M, or other relevant experience. For Non-tech students such as graphic artists and writers with a passion for the ocean and their world, the desire to communicate your love of our Water Planet is your prerequisite. Those already on competition teams can use this time to hone skills, develop ideas, and learn new techniques in a relaxed environment.