Volunteering Information

The Canadian International Rover Challenge is looking for volunteers for the 2023 Competition in Drumheller, Alberta from August 11-14 2023. In order to make this event a success, we require many volunteers to assist with running the event.

Volunteering gives you a chance to get up close and personal with world class robots in the stunning surroundings of the Alberta Badlands.

Requirements and Conditions of Volunteer Participation

You are responsible for making your own travel arrangements to and from Drumheller, Alberta (carpooling may be available depending on your location).
You are responsible for your own lodging, meals and any other expenses (CSTAG aims to provide some discounts or benefits for volunteers but can’t commit to anything at this time. We will share this information as they are confirmed.)
By signing up to volunteer you are acknowledging and consenting that photography, film and/or video, from the event, may be taken and you further agree that any or all of the material may be used for promotion, publications, and other materials used to promote CIRC and that such use shall be without payment of fees, royalties, special credit or other compensation.
By signing up to volunteer you are specifically releasing CIRC, CSTAG, its volunteers, agents and staff from any claims or liabilities of any kind whatsoever, arising from or related to my participation in these activities.

Volunteer Roles

Competition Task Volunteers

There are five different tasks at the Canadian International Rover Challenge. We will try to accommodate your preference for which task you would like to volunteer at. No specific skills or equipment are required.

Task volunteers may be asked to do any or all of the following:

Act as a judge for the task under the supervision of an event organizer
Facilitate team movements around the task site
Interact with the public and media
Manage the live stream equipment
Capture videos and photos of the event
In the case of an emergency, take charge until the appropriate emergency personnel are on site
Transport any task related equipment
Set up any task related equipment and the task base (tent, tables, chairs, etc.)
Further information about the tasks can be found at https://circ.cstag.ca/2023/tasks/

2023 competition Tasks

Terrain Traversal Task: The rover will be tasked with following a series of waypoints and read markers at each site.
Search and Rescue Task: The rover will be challenged with rescuing a stranded astronaut from a hazardous environment and carrying out repairs in the area. Note: this task takes place at night.
Water Redirection Task: The rover will disassemble, reconfigure, and restart a water pumping station while inspecting the parts for damage. Note: this task takes longer than the others.
Land Speculation Task: Teams will send their rover to search for a site for a new outpost and report on their findings.
Reactor Servicing Task: The rovers will manipulate a control panel through a series of inputs as directed by a remotely connected subject matter expert.

CIRC Central Hub Supervisors

CIRC Central is an indoor hub where all the teams have a space to work and is open to visitors from the public. Skills and Equipment Required: The willingness to speak to the public and media.

General responsibilities of those volunteering in the central facility will include:

Monitoring that participants are using the facilities appropriately
Only allowing participants into the building overnight
Ensuring cold drinking water is available to teams
Answering any questions participants have
Interaction with the public and media

Logistics Volunteers

To support the various task sites, drivers are needed to:

Bring food to volunteers at the task sites
Bring water and ice refills to the individual stations
Transport volunteers, sponsors, or equipment between task sites

Skills & Equipment Required: Your own vehicle; proof of a valid driver’s license and insurance are required. Fuel costs incurred while volunteering in this role will be reimbursed.

Photographer Volunteers

There will be a large amount of activity and excitement throughout the weekend. As such we hope to capture photos and videos of the event. We are looking for individuals that would enjoy taking photos, video, and helping out with the event live stream.

Skills & Equipment Required: digital camera, phone and/or video camera. A good eye for a great image.

General Volunteers

Many other tasks will need doing throughout the weekend, including setup and takedown of event infrastructure, running last-minute errands, or covering for other volunteers when they need a break. Sign up for this role to help out wherever you’re needed most.

Skills and Requirements: flexible and adaptable, willing to pitch in as needed.