Autonomous underwater vehicles present a unique challenge which requires careful planning and extensive testing to successfully and reliably complete tasks underwater without human interference. This objective presents designers and engineers with a unique framework to operate in, and to design systems which are used to accomplish a common goal. Competitions are held which allow University students, and other non-professional AUV designers, to participate in a competitive environment which encourages planning, innovation, and success. The mission of the Dalhousie Autonomous Underwater Vehicle team is to research, design, build, test, and compete at various events while allowing students to learn in a technical and collaborative environment.