Meet Our Specialized Teams
Each subteam brings unique expertise and skills to create our award-winning steel bridges
Design
The design subteam has the job of creating the overall shape and geometry of the bridge. With multiple meetings and presentations during the Fall semester, the team works hard to choose safe section sizes, easy-to-construct connections, and member sizes. Analysis is done in MASTAN2 and Autodesk Fusion 360 to ensure that the bridge would not fail under any of the given load cases.
- Teamwork & Collaboration
- Creative Problem-Solving
- CAD Software Experience
Fabrication
The fabrication subteam is responsible for machining all pieces of the bridge to be welded using the mill, horizontal and vertical bandsaws, lathe, drill press, and a variety of grinders. Fabrication members are trained over the Fall semester and work on the bridge pieces over the Spring semester.
- Industry Knowledge & Techniques
- Hands-On Manufacturing Skills
- Safety & Precision Work
Welding
The welding subteam is in charge of welding the fabricated pieces of the bridge together using MIG welding. Tools used in conjunction with the welding machine include calipers, clamps, and magnets to weld with the greatest precision possible. Welders are trained during the Fall semester and work hard during Spring semester to weld the strongest bridge possible.
- Professional Welding Techniques
- Precision Tool Operation
- Quality Assurance Standards
Construction
The construction subteam's main task is to speed build the bridge at competition. Members of the team practice building per competition guidelines and optimize methods, builders, and tools to minimize time needed to build. Construction efficiency is a huge factor in competition scoring and thus plays a vital role in the overall performance of the team.
- Time Management & Efficiency
- Team Coordination
- Competition Strategy
Business
The business subteam often handles sponsorships, newsletters, website, and creates the presentation and poster for competition. While the team's duties are not directly related to the bridge itself, the business team helps with securing funding from sponsors and Giving Day to ensure we are able to purchase materials.
- Leadership & Management
- Communication & Networking
- Strategic Decision-Making