ETTN has embarked on a new program to connect college-level, advanced-engineering students with SEMA-member manufacturers. The purpose is to provide a portal through which students competing in Formula SAE teams at their college or university can reach out to interested member companies for assistance with services, parts, equipment and mentorship.
The SAE Formula teams are comprised of bright, educated students with a keen interest in racing and performance. So it stands to reason that many are also interested in seeking careers in engineering, design and innovation across all platforms of today’s—and tomorrow’s—vehicles. Which creates a potential pool of valuable, next-generation job candidates.
Unfortunately, the teams are often underfunded and strapped for resources. Member companies willing to assist a team or teams, not only earn the satisfaction of lending a helping hand. They also have the opportunity to engage with and recruit these highly sought-after innovators.
Moreover, for the cost of providing a part or service, manufacturers can request research or dissertations that take a deep dive into the part or service provided, and basically receive free R&D in exchange for their support of the ETTN initiative.
“To secure our future in the industry, we need to bring new, innovative ideas into the halls of the SEMA Show and continually push the boundaries of technology in the automotive aftermarket,” said Lehn. “To do that in my opinion, we must foster relationships with the next generation of innovators and thinkers. Let them know there’s an exciting future with our member companies.”
To learn more about the program or to offer services or parts, email ghall@magnaflow.com, ian@boostlane.com and bryanh@sema.org.