Need reasons to join us?
UW Formula Electric builds a new race car every year. In case that isn't enough to convince you to join us, here's a few reasons:
1. It’s a highly engaging design project
You'll learn how to design real solutions to real problems on a real car. Then you'll build them, test them, go back to the drawing board and repeat. You'll learn technical skills that are at par with 4th-year co-op terms, with the freedom to innovate that you won't get in a workplace until several years after you graduate.
2. There's something in it for everyone
It isn't just engineering. Our sponsorship, marketing, and operations are all handled by the team. No matter what your background is, there is room for the skill set you bring and there are avenues for you to get the skills that you want.
3. The biggest lessons you learn may not be on the race car
Sure, we build a race car. But more importantly, you're building something on time, on a budget, with other humans, while completing a university degree, probably with co-op. You'll learn to communicate effectively, manage your time, manage your system's resources, pitch an idea to a sponsor, make decisions with very little existing information and research areas that don't have data online - all skills that will apply directly to the real world.
4. The race car's worth it too though
It goes fast (0-100 km/h in 3.5s) and it represents UWaterloo at Formula SAE events across North America. The car can stand 2G laterally and is a scary beast to drive for many new drivers.
5. Its probably the best thing you'll do in university
You're going to make friends that last you a lifetime, getting your hands dirty, making something that represents your university internationally.
What we expect from you
We strongly believe that the most important things you can bring to the team are passion and a willingness to learn. Whether you've worked in an auto shop all your life or never touched a wrench, whether you've fund-raised several campaigns or have no idea how sponsorship works, it does not matter.
It does not matter what you bring with you to the team, what matters is how quickly you can learn and contribute to the team. This project will have things to teach you whether you're in first year or fourth year. So it is extremely important that you never stop asking questions. Show up, ask for work, do the work, and repeat. If you get stuck, ask us. Took on too much or too little work? Tell us. We're a team. Your success is the team's success.
WHERE TO MEET US
Come out to General Meetings, every Monday at 7pm in E5-2004. Or send us an email if you have any questions!
