Do we have a club in New Hartford Senior High School for students interested in engineering? The Alternative Energy Club is an engineering-based club where students participate in building race cars, and fundraising using 3D printing and laser engraving technology.
Race
The club oversees the build of a real race car which is constructed and designed by club members. The car is blue and red with long narrow type body. A person drives the car at competitions in races in hopes of winning against other schools.
Alternative Energy club is open-ended and also run by students who are given creative control.
History
Mr. VonDauber, the advisor, and engineering teacher here at New Hartford Senior High School reveals that the club was originally an Electrathon Club where members could build electric or battery powered cars to compete in Electrathon competitions.
According to Mr. VonDauber, “Some years the students are very motivated and we get a lot accomplished on the vehicle, other years we have students who are looking to do other activities such as laser engraving, robotics or 3D printing.”
Electrathon
For 1 hour, students are permitted to race vehicles, the winning team has to build the most efficient car and do the most laps possible without running out of power. This is student-based and the 1-person electric vehicle is typically given 1000 watt hours. The activity provides hands-on experience and applies theoretical knowledge to practical usage.
Shell Eco Marathon
Years later, the club tried to construct the Shell Eco Marathon vehicle. Team members would design a hybrid car to compete against other schools and colleges, explains Mr. VonDauber.
The marathon revolves around innovation and design, it pushes the boundaries of what’s possible, and fosters a mindset of eco-friendly engineering.
Timeline
The club begins meeting in September and combines a small team of motivated students to design, create, or fix the current vehicle. Fundraising is usually done around holidays to save money for parts and supplies for the car.
Demitri, a sophomore at New Hartford Senior High School says he likes being involved in Alternate Energy club because he gets to “build awesome stuff and there’s a possibility of going to a nationwide competition.”
How to Join?
If you’re interested, students can stop by Room 155, or talk to other current members. Any students, even without experience, can participate and are encouraged to join!
