EMU Today

YPSILANTI— The Eastern Michigan University Baja Racing Team, comprised of engineering students from the GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology, showcased its latest innovation in off-road vehicle design. From May 16 to May 19, the team demonstrated its skills and engineering prowess against competitors from around the globe during the Baja SAE Williamsport Competition in Montgomery, Pa.

During the race, the team completed two of three design inspections and was well on their way to completing the final inspection, but they hit a time limit. Beyond their round-the-clock effort to prepare the car to compete, students networked with many other teams who shared their strategies and experiences, lent tools, and even helped students fix items on the vehicle.

“The competition is so much more than simply building and driving the car, and from what we've heard, it takes a few tries to get up to speed, said Andrew Mansfield, associate professor of mechanical engineering and EMU Baja Club advisor.“Many teams were very impressed with the results of our first attempt.” 

Kara Bishop, a recent graduate from Eastern’s mechanical engineering program, attended and competed in the competition. 

“Even though we didn't make it to any dynamic events, this is a huge milestone for EMU and will be the starting point for next year's Baja club,” said Bishop. “I am so proud of our work, and I can walk away satisfied knowing I gave it everything I had to get this far.” 

“I am so thankful to our faculty advisor, Professor Mansfield, for pushing us never to give up and to the team for all hours spent creating a car from the ground up,” said Bishop. This competition is tough, and I am excited to see what the team will accomplish next year.”

About the GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology
The GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology provides world-class experiences in engineering, cybersecurity, aviation, construction management, autonomous vehicles, drone technology, aviation, and other areas of study in high-demand career fields in engineering and technology. It is within the college’s mission to cultivate individuals' intellectual and personal growth through research-informed education and diverse programs that emphasize the practical application of scientific knowledge. For more information about the GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology, visit the college’s website at gameabove.emich.edu.

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.