The Department of Applied Science at Nicholls has reformed its student chapter of the Society of Engineers (SAE).
Since Fall 1981, Nicholls has competed in the Formula SAE Racing Car Competition, competing against schools such as Texas A&M, Michigan, MIT, Georgia Tech and Virginia Tech. However, in 1998, the chapter became inactive because the Engineering Technology programs had been terminated by the state.
With support from local businesses and industries, the Manufacturing Engineering Technology program was established.
“Because of the newly approved program in Manufacturing Engineering Technology, interest has been revived in the Formula SAE competition,” Richard Ourso, president of Nicholls’ SAE student chapter, said.
The team’s goal is to design and build a car and enter it in the intercollegiate competition, which is sponsored by the SAE and sports Car Clubs of America. The SAE also receives support from Chrysler, Ford and General Motors.
George Watt, faculty adviser of the program, explained the process of preparing for the competition.
“It basically entails organizing a team, soliciting cash or auto parts from companies in the area, designing the car’s frame and building a car that fits the requirements,” Watt said.
The team has approximately one year to build the right racecar. The competition will be held in Pontiac, Mich. in May 2004.
“Right now we are learning how to set things in motion for the fall semester,” Watt said.
According to Watt, students participating in the racecar competition will not need any special training. However, a driver’s license is a must.
A competition such as this may also be hazardous, so there are certain precautions that must be followed by the drivers. For example, no racecars can be topless and seat belts and helmets have to be worn. Moreover, the frame of the car must support the loads it is subjected to.
“I think that competing in the Formula SAE Racing Car Competition will give the university great publicity and students will learn the importance of teamwork and management skills,” Watt said.
Considering that Nicholls has excelled in the past, next year’s team should do well in the competition. In 1986, Nicholls placed ninth out of the 22 universities in the competition.
To build a highly competitive vehicle that will dominate all others, student support is needed. Any students interested in participating in the racecar competition can contact Richard Ourso or George Watt by e-mailing [email protected] or by calling (985) 448-4737.