()ANGOLA) - A group of Trine University engineering seniors is getting a boost from back home as they prepare for a national competition.
Seven mechanical engineering students have secured multiple sponsors -- including one from a teammate's hometown of Morristown, Indiana -- to support their senior design project for the Shell Eco-marathon. The annual competition challenges college teams to design and build the most fuel-efficient vehicle possible.
The Trine team is competing in the prototype internal combustion engine category, focusing on lightweight materials, aerodynamics, and efficiency. Students are responsible for finding their own sponsors, pitching the project and its benefits.
While several companies stepped up to help, the Morristown sponsorship stood out as especially meaningful for the team. Students say community support has been motivating as they tackle complex challenges, including building a carbon-fiber vehicle body.
Team members say the project has been demanding but rewarding -- and a true example of teamwork and real-world engineering experience before graduation.