Beyond The Competition

SAE International

As the official must-listen podcast of SAE University Programs, you can expect authentic, engaging (and often amusing) conversations about all things related to SAE's collegiate programming, as well as other industry-driven topics from SAE International. Our guests will include SAE International staff, former competitors, volunteers, organizers, and occasionally industry professionals! Topics range from ruleset discussions to career advice and everything in between. This is the perfect podcast to listen to in the shop.

  1. Jul 16

    From Formula SAE to NASCAR, F1 & Automotive Careers | Women in Motorsports 2026

    Recorded live during Formula SAE IC 2026 at Michigan International Speedway, this special panel discussion brings together accomplished leaders from across motorsports, automotive engineering, mobility technology, and manufacturing to share their career journeys and lessons learned along the way. Featuring Brooke Bond, Laura Klauser, Alba Colón, Emily Anthony, Mary Bellino, Vismita Sonagra, Laura Luna, Rebecca Vollmann, Amber Hoppe, and Amy Chambers, the conversation explores how Formula SAE helped shape their careers, the value of mentorship, overcoming adversity, leadership in technical environments, and the importance of building strong teams. The panel also answers audience questions on mentorship, team motivation, imposter syndrome, communication, leadership, and navigating the transition from student engineer to industry professional. Whether you're involved in Formula SAE, pursuing an engineering degree, or looking to build a career in motorsports or automotive technology, this discussion provides practical advice and inspiration from professionals who have successfully navigated that path. Topics include: Career development in motorsports and engineering Formula SAE success stories Women in STEM and technical leadership Mentorship and professional growth Team management and communication Handling setbacks and learning from failure Building confidence and finding your place in the industry Recorded live at Formula SAE IC 2026 at Michigan International Speedway.

  2. Jun 12

    From Formula SAE to Industry with Oshkosh and Pratt Miller Engineers

    In this episode of Beyond the Competition, hosts Mike Sorg and Scott Schultz sit down with three engineers who have taken different paths from university engineering programs into industry careers. Joining the show are Ben Baize, Controls Engineer at Pratt Miller, Evan Wiedemeier, Rotational Engineer at Oshkosh Corporation and former AutoDrive Challenge student, and Land Barnum, Electrification Engineer at Oshkosh Corporation. The conversation explores how hands-on student competition experiences—and in Land's case, a more traditional engineering path—helped prepare them for careers in vehicle development, electrification, controls engineering, autonomous systems, and commercial vehicle innovation. Key Topics Formula SAE career preparation AutoDrive Challenge experiences Engineering leadership and teamwork Vehicle controls and software development Electrification and EV technologies ADAS and autonomous vehicle systems Working across engineering disciplines Advice for current engineering students Career opportunities at Oshkosh and Pratt Miller Networking at Formula SAE competitions One additional correction from the transcript: the company name should be Oshkosh Corporation, not "Ashkosh," throughout all descriptions.

  3. Jun 4

    Baja SAE New York 2026 Know Before You Go

    As teams prepare for Baja SAE New York 2026, Mike Sorg sits down with Baja SAE Program Manager Damon Andring and event organizers Steven Shurski and Andrew Beckmann to discuss everything competitors need to know before arriving at Hogback Hill. From registration and Fast Track Rosters to engine check, technical inspection requirements, and event safety expectations, this episode serves as your essential "Know Before You Go" guide for Baja SAE New York. The team covers important reminders about Tech Sheet Revision C, proper documentation, sponsor engagement opportunities, weather preparation, spectator safety, and how teams can make the most of their competition weekend. The conversation also highlights the value of the sponsor tent, career networking opportunities, and some local Rochester attractions and food recommendations for teams traveling to Western New York. Whether you're a first-time competitor or a returning veteran, this episode will help ensure you're prepared for a successful and safe Baja SAE weekend. In This Episode: Registration and Fast Track Roster requirements Engine check and technical inspection reminders Tech Sheet Revision C updates Safety expectations for teams and spectators Weather preparation and site conditions Sponsor tent networking opportunities Career portal and recruiting tips Rochester area recommendations and local attractions

  4. May 21

    How Formula SAE Helped Joshua Kim Build an Engineering Career

    How does a Formula SAE student go from building aero packages and carbon fiber layups to becoming Chief of Staff at a semiconductor startup? On this episode of Beyond the Competition, hosts Mike and Scott talk with Joshua Kim about his journey from the University of Illinois Formula SAE EV team to leadership at Synergy Research Labs. Joshua shares how hands-on experience in Formula SAE taught him critical engineering and manufacturing skills that couldn’t be learned in the classroom alone. From CNC machining and composites manufacturing to presenting ideas in design reviews and solving high-pressure engineering problems, Joshua explains how Formula shaped both his technical abilities and his confidence as an engineer. The conversation also dives into: Why many Formula SAE programs are consolidating into EV teams The value of learning design for manufacturability and serviceability How Formula SAE prepares students for internships and careers The importance of asking questions and staying humble as an engineer Why hands-on experience matters in engineering education Joshua’s memorable moments from competition at Michigan Advice for current Formula SAE students looking to maximize their experience Joshua also discusses Synergy Research Labs’ work developing gallium oxide semiconductor materials and why the company is recruiting directly from Formula SAE programs. Whether you’re a current SAE student, alumni, or engineering professional, this episode is packed with insight on how student competition programs translate directly into real-world engineering careers.

  5. Apr 24

    Baja SAE Oregon Know Before You Go

    Get ready for Baja SAE Oregon with this essential “Know Before You Go” episode of Beyond the Competition, the SAE University Programs Podcast. Host Mike Sorg is joined by Baja SAE Program Manager Damon Andring and Organizing Committee Chairman Tom Paasch to break down everything competitors need to know before arriving in Washougal. From registration requirements and tech inspection prep to trailer staging logistics and site rules, this episode is your complete guide to navigating the event smoothly. The team also dives into what makes Baja SAE Oregon unique — including its iconic motocross venue, challenging terrain, and fan-favorite dynamic events like rock crawl, hill climb, and endurance. 🔧 In this episode: Registration must-haves (fast track rosters, wristbands, tech sheets) Engine check procedures and safety reminders Important site rules (footwear, prohibited items, spectator policies) Trailer staging system and how to secure a prime paddock spot Navigation tips for arriving at Washougal safely Event schedule breakdown (design, dynamics, endurance, awards) Food, water, and planning ahead for a remote venue Dynamic event strategy, including rock crawl timing advantages Endurance course features on a national motocross track Career opportunities with sponsors and how to prepare Weather expectations and packing tips for the Pacific Northwest Whether you're a first-time competitor or a returning team, this episode will help you arrive prepared, stay safe, and focus on performing your best. 👉 For more competition details, rules, and updates, visit Baja SAE at BajaSAE.net. 📍 Show notes: beyondthecompetition.fireside.fm 📱 Download the Baja SAE app for real-time updates

  6. Apr 16

    From Parts to Podiums: Oshkut’s Role in Baja SAE This Year

    In this episode of Beyond the Competition, Mike and Scott welcome Caleb Chamberlain, CEO and co-founder of Oshkut, to discuss how on-demand metal fabrication is revolutionizing the way student engineering teams build. Caleb shares the origin of his company—from a challenging VR motion rig project to a rapidly growing fabrication platform—and explains how Oshkut is uniquely designed for high-mix, low-volume manufacturing. This makes it an ideal partner for student teams working on one-off parts and rapid prototypes. The conversation dives into how Oshkut supports hundreds of university teams, including those competing in Formula SAE and Baja SAE, offering discounted services and tools that make advanced manufacturing more accessible than ever. Listeners will also gain practical advice on designing for sheet metal, avoiding common CAD mistakes, optimizing lead times, and leveraging modern fabrication workflows to accelerate development cycles. If you're a student engineer, team member, or educator looking to push your build further—this episode is a must-listen. Oshcut Academic Sponsorship: https://www.oshcut.com/academic-sponsorships

  7. Apr 15

    Aero Design West 2026 Know Before You Go

    Heading to SAE Aero Design West 2026? This Know Before You Go episode has you covered. In this episode, we talk with students, teams, and SAE staff to give you a full picture of what to expect at competition—from technical inspection and design judging to the real-world challenges teams face getting their aircraft ready to fly. You’ll hear firsthand experiences about preparation, travel, teamwork, and the lessons learned along the way. Whether it’s your first competition or you’re a returning competitor, this episode offers practical advice and insights to help you make the most of the event. SAE Aero Design isn’t just about building an aircraft—it’s about collaboration, problem-solving, and gaining hands-on experience that prepares you for a career in engineering. 👉 Learn more or get involved: https://saeaerodesign.com/

  8. Mar 19

    Student Leadership in Engineering: Bridget O’Connell Wins the Max Rumbaugh Leadership Award

    In this episode of Beyond the Competition – the SAE University Programs Podcast, hosts Mike Sorg and Scott Schultz are joined by Gretchen Urenek and special guest Bridget O’Connell, president of the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Women’s Baja SAE Team and winner of the Max Rumbaugh Outstanding Student Leadership Award.  Bridget shares her journey from building and innovating on her team’s experimental tracked “tank-style” Baja vehicle to leading a student engineering team through design challenges, competition preparation, and leadership growth. The conversation explores how SAE competitions shape engineering careers, what it takes to lead a successful Baja SAE team, and how hands-on competition experience helped Bridget land a career as a test engineer at Northrop Grumman after graduation.  In this episode • The Max Rumbaugh Outstanding Student Leadership Award and what it means for SAE student leaders • Bridget’s experience leading the Embry-Riddle Women’s Baja SAE Team • Designing and racing a tracked Baja vehicle that pushed competition innovation • Lessons learned from team leadership and engineering decision-making • How SAE competitions help students prepare for real engineering careers • Advice for students stepping into leadership roles in engineering teams • Why Baja SAE competitions are some of the most exciting engineering events to attend Whether you’re a student competitor, engineering leader, or future SAE participant, this episode offers insights into leadership, innovation, and the real-world value of engineering competitions.

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About

As the official must-listen podcast of SAE University Programs, you can expect authentic, engaging (and often amusing) conversations about all things related to SAE's collegiate programming, as well as other industry-driven topics from SAE International. Our guests will include SAE International staff, former competitors, volunteers, organizers, and occasionally industry professionals! Topics range from ruleset discussions to career advice and everything in between. This is the perfect podcast to listen to in the shop.

Information

  • Creator
    SAE International
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    106
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 SAE International
  • Show Website
    Beyond The Competition