PNW — A group of ambitious teenagers from four Central Oregon high schools has accomplished something truly extraordinary. Calling themselves the Oregon Solar Car Team, they embarked on a remarkable journey, raising funds and building their very own solar-powered car from the ground up. With each wire carefully soldered, every bolt diligently tightened, and every solar panel joint meticulously connected, the team’s passion for innovation and engineering was evident in every aspect of their creation.
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For team member Ethan Campbell, witnessing the car drive under its own power for the first time was an exhilarating moment filled with adrenaline and awe. The team’s hard work and dedication were about to be put to the ultimate test as they prepared to compete in the annual Solar Car Challenge, pitting their creation against teams from across the United States.
The Solar Car Challenge is not for the faint of heart. Teams face a rigorous inspection process known as “scutineering,” where the slightest misstep could lead to disqualification. Only those who pass this demanding test are granted the opportunity to race, traveling in stages from Texas to California. The Oregon Solar Car Team showcased their mettle and quickly established themselves as formidable contenders, holding the second position in their division.
However, fate had different plans for the ambitious team. On the third day of the race, an outbreak of COVID-19 forced a halt to the competition in El Paso. Undeterred and unwilling to let their efforts go to waste, the Oregon team demonstrated their adaptability and resourcefulness by finding alternative racetracks in Arizona. With resilience as their driving force, they continued their solar-powered journey, showcasing a spirit that goes beyond mere competition.
The mastermind behind this exceptional team is their advisor, Bend Trinity Lutheran Science Teacher Tom Steuve. With 16 years of experience leading the project, Steuve focuses on instilling resilience and problem-solving skills in his students. He emphasizes the importance of making quick and vital decisions while canceling out other options, an essential trait for any successful engineer.
Steuve proudly explained, “The students on my team become master problem solvers. You have to make decisions that are canceling out other decisions; you have to just decide. You have to make quick, just really important decisions really fast.”
The students take center stage in the engineering process, assembling and planning for race day throughout the year. Steuve guides and mentors them, but the level of expertise and craftsmanship showcased by these high school students is akin to a senior-level project in college.
With several seniors from this year’s team moving on to pursue engineering in college, the Oregon Solar Car Team is poised for a bright future. As they bid farewell to graduating members, the team is eager to welcome new underclassmen in the fall, setting the stage for future accomplishments.
Those intrigued by the incredible feat of the Oregon Solar Car Team will have the chance to witness their innovative creation firsthand. The team’s solar-powered car will be on display during OMSI’s Festival of Science on September 16 and 17, providing an opportunity for the public to marvel at the ingenuity and determination of these exceptional young engineers. The future of renewable energy looks brighter than ever, thanks to the unwavering spirit of the Oregon Solar Car Team.
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