AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY RACE CAR ENDS SEASON

Students in the Automotive Technology Program at Iowa Lakes Community College won two trophies during the summer of 2003 at the Humboldt County Dragway.

The intent of the project was to give the students the opportunity to apply their skills in an area that wasn't available in the regular, day-to-day educational setting.  A couple of years ago, the students expressed a desire to explore the excitement of the racetrack.

After exploring several options, the students elected to build a drag racing car.

They participated in seven race dates and came home with two trophies - not bad for their first year!

"I was pleased with the progress the students made in developing the car and applying their skills to this new venue," said Brian Campbell, Associate Professor of Automotive Technology.

Since the first year was so successful, the project will continue to evolve as students research racing technology and modify their theories.  And, as each new class becomes involved in the project, Campbell says, new concepts and ideas will be applied to the vehicle.

Sophomore students include: Kalen Hilsabeck, Algona; Matt Rogers, Ringsted; Dean Hansen, Algona; Dan Welhousen, Titonka; John Wiemann, Algona; Chris Carr, Algona; Jim Monsen, Royal; Mike Stanford, Arnolds Park; Brad Alderson, Emmetsburg; Mike Mahorney, Spencer; Jim Davis, Lake Park; Jim Fales, Albert City; Nick Hein, Glidden; and, Dustin Kruse, Cherokee.

Freshmen students include: Caleb Brandhagen, Estherville; Matt Garner, Tea S.D.; Cliff Gross, Whittemore; Nicholas Marlow, Spencer; Keith McGrouth, Emmetsburg; Eric Molison,  Emmetsburg; Austin Olson, Pocahontas; Nathan Pudenz, Breda; Matt Roozing, Hull; Justin Schaff, Emmetsburg; Kelsey Staiert, Fonda; Joe Strum, Glidden; and, Adam Thilges, Algona.

The Automotive Technology Program is a two-year associate in applied science degree offered at the Emmetsburg Campus of Iowa Lakes.  For more information on the program, call 1-800-242-5108 ext. 235 or visit the Iowa Lakes website at: www.iowalakes.edu.