How can a small liberal arts university like Taylor compete in this major event?
Taylor may be small, but our accomplishments are not. One example is space research. We have won several research proposals, and currently have a satellite instrument in space. Also, the Solar Racing Team is putting existing technologies together instead of becoming lost in innovation. This strategy mirrors what engineers must do to be successful in industry. Students at Taylor gain valuable experience in a broad range of activities. Future engineers learn to apply classroom knowledge to a real world design and manufacturing project. Gideon’s Torch is an engineering problem with the complexities of any product in the manufacturing world. Building a solar car does not just involve engineering, though. The Solar Racing Team has the dynamics of a small company. Funding and material donations are acquired and budgeted to important areas of the development and competition. Also, good project management must see that important milestones are reached on time. This project goes beyond the scop
