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In a bold step to enhance technical expertise within the motorsports arena, Ice Barn Racing has teamed up with two aspiring engineers from the esteemed Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology. This initiative isn’t just about boosting the team’s performance on the track; it also offers these students a golden opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the thrilling world of professional racing. As the team gears up for competition at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, the integration of these students underscores the vital role of practical experience in this fast-paced environment.
Meet the Students
Allow me to introduce Ayden Snedigar and Thornton Thomas, both juniors at Rose-Hulman, who are ready to make their mark on the Ice Barn Racing team. Ayden, from Monroe, Ohio, is pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering with a minor in computer science. His role as Front Desk and Machine Shop Supervisor at the Branam & Kramer Innovation Center has provided him with invaluable hands-on experience in manufacturing and machine shop operations. His internship at Hydrotech Inc. further deepened his skills, where he collaborated with the Rose-Hulman Grand Prix Engineering Team to develop strategies for MoTeC ECUs, showcasing his impressive technical prowess.
On the flip side, we have Thornton Thomas, who hails from Arlington, Virginia. Like Ayden, he is also majoring in mechanical engineering, but his motorsports journey is highlighted by his leadership role as the Suspension Sub-Team Lead for the Grand Prix Engineering Team. Thornton’s work included redesigning components to tackle clearance issues and spearheading the design of an electric vehicle suspension system, employing advanced tools like SolidWorks and ANSYS. His practical experience is not just theoretical; it’s a testament to his ability to apply learned concepts in real-world situations, making him a fantastic addition to the Ice Barn Racing crew.
The Impact of Technology in Motorsports
As we dive deeper into the world of racing, it’s clear that technology is a game-changer for success on the racetrack. Ice Barn Racing is keenly aware of the importance of nurturing the next generation of engineers. Josh Mervis, the owner of Ice Barn Racing, emphasizes the value of providing students with real-world experiences that transcend the boundaries of traditional classroom learning. For Snedigar and Thomas, working directly with a professional racing team offers a unique glimpse into the industry’s demands and intricacies, setting them up for fruitful careers once they graduate.
The hands-on involvement of engineering students in such a competitive setting highlights the crucial link between education and practical application. By collaborating with seasoned professionals, these students are not only contributing to the team’s success but also honing skills that will be essential in their future endeavors. This partnership between educational institutions and professional racing teams embodies a forward-thinking approach to cultivating talent in the automotive and engineering fields.
Upcoming Events and Schedule
This weekend is shaping up to be an exhilarating time for Ice Barn Racing as they compete in the Parts Unlimited Talent Cup By Motul Championship at Mid-Ohio. The schedule is packed with practice sessions and races that will showcase the team’s capabilities and the students’ contributions. Here’s what to look forward to:
- Friday: 11:35 am – Talent Cup Practice 1 (25 minutes), 4:30 pm – Talent Cup Qualifying 1 (30 minutes)
- Saturday: 8:30 am – Talent Cup Qualifying 2 (30 minutes), 12 Noon – Talent Cup Race 1 (10 Laps)
- Sunday: 9:40 am – Talent Cup Warm-Up (15 minutes), 12 Noon – Talent Cup Race 2 (10 Laps)
As the team prepares for the weekend’s events, the collaboration with engineering students not only showcases the importance of technical knowledge in motorsports but also sets the stage for a bright future for both the students and the Ice Barn Racing team.