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About  

Our mission

We are the University of Southern California's chapter of Formula SAE. As an entirely student-run organization that designs, constructs, tests, and races high performance autocross racecars, we compete against universities from across the globe in an ultimate test of our car’s abilities.

Who We Are

USC Racing is open to all majors and years. While most of the team is made up of engineers, you don’t have to be an engineer to be involved – we welcome any and everyone! By taking students out of the classroom and allowing them to apply textbook theories to real-world problems, USC's Formula SAE produces some of the most talented and highly desired graduates in the country.

What we do

Every year, our team undertakes the exciting challenge of developing a new car specifically for racing. We are deeply involved in every stage of this process, ensuring that we bring our vision to life through meticulous design, precise manufacturing, and rigorous testing.

From the initial concept phase, where we brainstorm and sketch our ideas, to the engineering design where we apply advanced principles to create a competitive vehicle, our collaboration is key. Once the design is finalized, we move into the manufacturing phase, where we utilize cutting-edge tools and techniques to fabricate the vehicle components.

Testing is a crucial part of our development cycle, allowing us to assess performance, safety, and efficiency. Through this comprehensive approach, we ensure that each new car meets the highest standards and is ready to compete at the highest levels. Our commitment to excellence drives us to innovate and improve with each iteration, making every racing season a testament to our hard work and dedication.
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Engineering Design

The Engineering Design team applies fundamental engineering principles to create efficient and effective vehicle designs. This team is structured into several subdivision teams, each specializing in different aspects of the design process. Through extensive research and collaborative brainstorming sessions, we develop innovative concepts tailored to the specific demands of racing. Each subdivision contributes its expertise, working together to translate these concepts into detailed designs that optimize both performance and functionality, ensuring a comprehensive and cohesive approach to vehicle development.

Manufacturing

The Manufacturing team utilizes advanced tools and techniques, including heavy-duty machining equipment, to fabricate vehicle components. This hands-on process is essential for bringing our designs to life, ensuring precision and quality at every step. Working closely together, the team oversees production, employing state-of-the-art machinery to guarantee that each part meets our rigorous standards and contributes to the overall integrity of the vehicle. Our commitment to excellence in manufacturing ensures that every component is built to withstand the demanding conditions of racing, where performance and reliability are paramount.

Business Team

Marketing

Sponsorship

The Marketing team plays a vital role in promoting the USC Racing Team and fostering a strong community around our brand. One of their key initiatives is the creation of merchandise, including shirts and jackets, that showcases our team spirit and identity. These items not only provide team members with a sense of unity but also serve as promotional tools that help raise awareness about our activities and achievements.

In addition to merchandise, the Marketing team actively utilizes social media platforms like Instagram and our official website to amplify our presence. Through engaging posts, updates on our projects, and highlights from events, they effectively communicate our mission and engage with fans and supporters. This multi-faceted approach ensures that the USC Racing Team remains visible and relevant, attracting new members and fostering a loyal following within the motorsport community.



 
The Sponsorship team is essential for securing the funding and resources necessary for the USC Racing Team's initiatives. They actively reach out to potential sponsors, presenting the unique opportunities our club offers for brand visibility and engagement. Through tailored pitches, they communicate the value of partnering with us, highlighting our commitment to excellence in motorsports.

Additionally, the team maintains relationships with current sponsors, ensuring they are informed about our progress and achievements. By fostering these connections, the Sponsorship team helps sustain and grow our financial support. Their efforts are crucial in enabling us to pursue ambitious projects and compete at the highest levels.





 

MEET THE TEAM!

Our Advisors!

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(From left to right: William Colvin, Dr. Yann Staelens) 

WILLIAM COLVIN

Bill is a Senior Instructional Lab Tech at the Baum Family Makerspace with extensive experience in motorsports and manufacturing. He is a licensed driver for nearly all types of vehicles on earth, including motorcycles and planes. Bill offers ongoing technical support for various aspects of car design and production.

Dr. Yann Staelens

Dr. Staelens is an Associate Professor of Engineering Practice in the Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering department. He advises the team on all technical matters and is a vault of engineering knowledge to draw upon. Dr. Staelens has been working on restoring a 1955 Ford Thunderbird in his free time!

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