Formula SAE Michigan - Day 2 - For the Love of Engineering

So it's day 2 of FSAE Michigan and the weatherman predicted rain – except it turned out to be 85F (30C). Dressing in a suit and tie for the design presentation or a fire resistant driving suit for the dynamic events was close to an inferno for these young engineers. So why do engineering students do this? I can think of no other reason but for the love of engineering. I used to think that FSAE was all about driving the car. But after years of SolidWorks sponsoring hundreds of teams, I am following the trials and tribulations of many teams this week, that showcases engineering at its best. I was invited in by my alma mater Rutgers with team advisor, Mark and his wife Carol. Their hospitality to the FSAE community is amazing. For any school wanting to get into FSAE, review the Rutgers team structure. Companies would marvel at their organization and team work.

I met one student from a Baja team and asked are you lost? No this week he is volunteering his time to his school's team to be the cook and just help out his fellow engineers and save the team money.

I am also a FSAE – wife this week. David is the adviser for a young WPI team. I wait anxiously for the results of every event today. WPI scored 20/20 for their cost report – a great accomplishment. But the tilt test, which positions the car at 45 and 60 degrees, resulted in a small leak, resulting a quick repair, to go back through tech inspection. They made it through tech inspection just as the doors were closing. You have no time to waste at this event. Marie

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Marie Planchard

Senior Director, Early Engagement, 3DEXPERIENCE Works at Dassault Systemes

Marie Planchard is an education and engineering advocate. As Senior Director of Education & Early Engagement, SOLIDWORKS, she is responsible for global development of content and social outreach for the 3DEXPERIENCE Works products across all levels of learning including educational institutions, Fab Labs, and entrepreneurship.