Engineer Levi Unema Pioneers Underwater Robotics for Exploration
When Levi Unema transitioned from an electrical engineer in the automotive industry to piloting underwater robots, he embarked on a remarkable journey of scientific exploration. In 2015, while working at an automotive parts supplier, he received an unexpected call from his former high-school science teacher, Harlan Kredit. Kredit, a noted educator and board member of the Global Foundation for Ocean Exploration (GFOE), was seeking an engineer to assist in designing and operating remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) for the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This opportunity would change the course of Unema’s career.
Unema joined the GFOE team in early 2016 and quickly became integral to the development and operation of deep-sea robots intended for scientific expeditions. His experience and passion for technology, combined with a childhood spent exploring the outdoors in Washington State, positioned him to thrive in this unique role. Although the contract with NOAA ended in July 2023, Unema and four former colleagues launched their consultancy, Deep Exploration Solutions, to continue their work in underwater robotics.
From Tinkering to Technology
Unema’s fascination with technology began in his youth. Growing up in Lynden, Washington, he spent hours dismantling radios and creating makeshift chargers. Influenced by his father, a civil engineer, and his mother, a high-school biology teacher, Unema developed a strong interest in both engineering and the natural world. This passion was further fueled by Kredit, who inspired many students with his engaging teaching style and dedication to science.
After graduating high school in 2010, Unema enrolled at Michigan Technological University, initially uncertain about his focus. However, he quickly gravitated towards electrical engineering, culminating in a summer internship at a steel mill operated by ArcelorMittal. This experience exposed him to factory automation and set the stage for his future endeavors.
In late 2015, the call from Kredit arrived, offering a role that combined engineering with the excitement of exploration. Unema faced a difficult decision, having just received a promotion at Gentex Corp., where he was working on manufacturing systems. Ultimately, the allure of travel and the innovative engineering challenges led him to accept the position.
Engineering Challenges in the Abyss
Working on underwater robotics involves overcoming significant engineering challenges. According to Unema, creating technology capable of withstanding the immense pressure at ocean depths requires careful consideration of design elements. “Everything has to be waterproof, and electronics need isolation to prevent grounding on the ocean floor,” he explains.
Unema collaborates closely with mechanical engineers to create compact designs for the ROVs. The vehicles must balance weight, size, and cost, as every gram affects buoyancy. The communication systems rely on extensive cables with optical fibers, and as technology evolves, the demand for data increases, complicating the design further.
Unema’s role encompasses the entire lifecycle of an ROV, from initial design to piloting during expeditions. He primarily worked on two ROVs for NOAA, named Deep Discoverer and Seirios, which operate from the research vessel Okeanos Explorer. He also has piloted ROVs for various organizations, including the Schmidt Ocean Institute and the Ocean Exploration Trust.
Now, with Deep Exploration Solutions, Unema’s team has secured contracts for winter maintenance on NOAA’s ROVs and is actively pursuing additional design and piloting opportunities.
Life at Sea and the Joy of Discovery
During expeditions, Unema is responsible for navigating the ROV while collaborating with scientists who observe video feeds to identify marine life. “There’s a lot of the bottom of the ocean where we don’t know anything about it,” he remarks, emphasizing the potential for discovering new species with each mission.
Life aboard research vessels can be demanding, as crew members often face seasickness while living in close quarters for weeks. Nevertheless, Unema appreciates the camaraderie among colleagues who share a mutual enthusiasm for exploration. “It’s like summer camp,” he says, highlighting the excitement that comes with the unknown.
Each expedition presents unique challenges, particularly when equipment malfunctions in remote areas. Unema enjoys troubleshooting these issues with the limited resources available onboard, stating, “Things break, and you’ve got to fix them with what you have out there.”
For those interested in pursuing a career in underwater robotics, Unema encourages networking with professionals in the field and exploring internship opportunities with organizations like the Ocean Exploration Trust. He emphasizes the rewarding nature of his work, saying, “I love it because I get to do all aspects of engineering—from idea to operations.”
As Unema continues his journey with Deep Exploration Solutions, his commitment to uncovering the mysteries of the ocean remains unwavering. His story exemplifies the intersection of passion, technology, and exploration, inspiring future generations to dive deep into the world of engineering and marine science.
