The Gordon and Jill Bourns College of Engineering at California Baptist University has seen tremendous growth in recent years, both in the number of students enrolled and the construction of the new, state-of-the-art building which provides classroom and lab space to train students in the latest technologies. CBU is committed to helping students enhance their learning experience both within and outside the classroom, and one unique club on campus helps them do just that. The Formula SAE Team is a student chapter of the Society of Automotive Engineers and the goal of the club is to give students hands-on experience in engineering design as they design, construct and ultimately race their vehicle, all under very strict regulations and deadlines.
Earlier this summer, the CBU Formula SAE Team competed against 76 other collegiate teams in Lincoln, Nebraska, and Design West’s Founding Principal, Mark Galle, was there to cheer them on. Design West Engineering is a recurring sponsor of the racing team and Mark is a close family friend of one of the students on the team.
The weather was not cooperative and rained each morning, forcing the team to use different tires, and in one race, the throttle stuck. Each of which slowed their overall performance, but despite those challenges, the team finished 31st in the field of 76 other well-known universities. They even placed 6th in the Fuel Efficiency Results, and the car was able to complete the endurance event for the first time which requires the completion of approximately 14 miles around the track. To celebrate, Mark treated the team to a steak dinner.
It is exciting to be a part of the growth of these students as they garner real-world experience. Design West Engineering looks forward to continued involvement in support of the CBU Racing Team in the coming years.
