Collegiate Design Series

SAE forges a strong bond with college students who will become the next generation of mobility engineers through its popular Collegiate Design Series, a winner of the National Science Foundation’s Public Service Award. Through this program, students worldwide have the opportunity to apply classroom theory by designing and building vehicles that range from hybrid cars to model aircraft. The design process culminates in exciting, high-profile educational competitions.

Getting its start in 1973, the competitions in the Collegiate Design Series now include Aero Design, Clean Snowmobile Challenge, Formula Hybrid, Formula SAE, Baja SAE and Supermileage. As students pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees in the fields of science and engineering, these competitions prepare them for future employment in mobility-related industries. In the United States, more than 700 teams comprised of 6,000-plus students from the nation's top engineering schools participate in events. Elsewhere, close to 600 teams including nearly 6,500 students are active in events held in Europe, Asia, Australia, South America and Africa.

Using a set of design parameters supplied by SAE, students work a year in advance to come up with a concept and execute designs for their vehicles. Grouped in multi-disciplinary teams that operate much like small businesses, the members not only are responsible for the engineering and design aspects of the vehicle, but teams frequently include business or finance majors who determine and manage costs and marketing. CDS competitions include group presentations, technology development and dynamic testing. With a variety of students involved, the team concept helps participants gain essential real-world skills of communication, project management and leadership.

Many students utilize their designs for senior projects, independent study projects, or as extracurricular activities that help to enhance their resumes. Corporate recruiters consider participation in CDS as a top achievement and critical training for future jobs. Corporations support the program by sponsoring teams or events, and in turn, consider the series to be a pipeline for engaging young talent – who have real-world experience. Alumni of SAE’s Collegiate Design Series are employed in a variety of engineering positions around the globe.

Looking into the future, CDS aims to expand its international presence through more events like the recently launched Baja SAE India and collaborating with other automotive societies, academic institutions and industry around the world.