Professional society-sponsored regional and national design team competitions represent an important component of an engineering student’s education. Participation in an experience of team building and project design becomes a highlight on student resumes. Students gain valuable knowledge while applying classroom lessons to practical situations, in addition to industry networking resources. Team participation raises the university, college and department profile at a national/international level.
At the same time, engineering students complete senior design projects requiring them to demonstrate knowledge and skills they have learned in the classroom; design systems and conduct experiments; analyze and interpret data; solve problems and communicate effectively. Many FIU students do not have the financial resources to participate in team competitions or contribute equally to senior design projects. A fund can provide resources to support these important and meaningful academic endeavors.