Baja NOW Weekly Update: Week of October 8, 2017
Today in the Baja Laboratory, new members were introduced to the design and cost reports that are a part of Baja. In the conference room, new members were given our cost report and then directed to search for a website or store to buy parts for the lowest available price. Senior members explained the importance of the cost report to and new members how it is used at our SAE National events as a component of our final score. Members researched new designs of a seat for the vehicle and were able to find materials that were more price efficient.
The team researching and collaborating new designs
Former President of Iowa Baja, Nathan Ward, also stopped by to offer advice and see some of the upcoming vehicle designs for next year.
"The team has already improved a lot since last year and it looks like there are a lot of new members on the team. They have a really good shot at this year and I wish them the best of luck at competitions." – Nathan Ward, Former President, Iowa BAJA
Former President Nathan Ward meets with current members to discuss designs
Over in the Laboratory, other members set to work repairing cars, as well as learning how to use some of the shop tools. Car 48 had all of its rear components removed in order to rebuild both the engine and gearbox mount in preparation for our upcoming race in Michigan in February.
Alex Dalziel and Eric Jones pull the rear components out of Car 48
Meanwhile, other members were taught how to use some of the shop machines, like the Lathe and the Mill. Members were shown proper technique when cutting raw materials by senior shop members.
"By showing the new members the fundamentals of how to design with our shop tools, not only do they gain hands-on experience, but it also helps teach them how to build some of our upcoming designs." - Vice President Rob Pohren
Vice President Robert Pohren teaches members how to use the Mill
New member Pete Laubenthal was happy to learn how to use the Mill.
"I am glad I learned how to use this, and with more practice, I want to start building some parts for the car." - Pete Laubenthal