Pennsylvania College of Technology’s Baja SAE team shines in inaugural ‘home’ competition

Pennsylvania College of Technology students showcased their hard work and dedication by finishing fourth out of 89 cars in the Baja SAE Williamsport endurance race, a premier event in the international competition. The 13-member Penn College Baja team spent months designing and building a single-seat, all-terrain vehicle to tackle rugged terrain, obstacles, sharp turns, hills, and mud during the four-hour endurance event.

This achievement marks the college’s 15th top-10 finish in the endurance race since 2011. Faculty adviser John G. Upcraft commended the team for their exceptional performance, highlighting the hands-on educational approach at Penn College as a key factor in their success.

The students manufactured about 95% of the car’s parts using industry-standard resources at the college’s machining and manufacturing centers. Despite starting 22nd in the endurance event, the team strategically maneuvered their way to the top, with graduates Marshall W. Fowler and Isaac H. Thollot leading the charge.

The team’s success at Baja SAE Williamsport also included top-10 finishes in suspension and traction, as well as maneuverability. Penn College captain Marshall W. Fowler expressed pride in the team’s collaborative effort, emphasizing the dedication and sacrifice made by each member to bring their car to fruition.

Looking ahead, the team is already gearing up for the next competition at Baja SAE Michigan, scheduled for September. With a working car and valuable lessons learned from their previous race, the Penn College team is poised to continue their winning streak and make their mark in the upcoming event.