From automotive novice to powertrain aficionado, Vincent is a prime example of how hard work and passion can help you accomplish anything.

Learning the ropes

“Early on in college, I became a member of the Formula SAE Combustion team (FSAE) as a business team member. Despite knowing very little about cars, I was eager to learn and work hard to help the team successfully meet the competition deadlines. I took every class that was offered through the Manufacturing Systems Engineering Lab (MSEL) so I could get the necessary hands-on experience to manufacture components for the car. 

“After several months of working on purchasing reports, contacting sponsors, building business presentations, and manufacturing components for the car from metals and composites, the 2019 summer competition came quickly upon us in early May. After several days of restless nights, while feeling the physical and mental exhaustion from the competition, I enjoyed the experience of being in the pits with our team working to pass the technical inspection, and manually pushing the car from the checkpoint for the next competition test or race. This experience was beyond words and what motivated me to continue being a part of the team for several years.”

Becoming a leader

“During the summer of 2020, I was nominated and voted as the new powertrain lead in charge of the powertrain subgroup and led various projects that we had in order to finish our annual vehicle design. Being a freshman only 2 years ago having no knowledge about cars at all, I couldn't believe it and accepted the role knowing the challenges I would face ahead.

“Being able to effectively manufacture using various machining tools as well as engage in technical conversations about powertrain components was a skill that came with a lot of hard work and patience. I'm still far from being an expert but have made significant progress towards my goal of being more competent in powertrain components for automotive vehicles as well as leading a team in technical projects. Learning how important communication skills are beyond that of technical know-how was certainly a surprise to me.”

Discovering the power of mentorship

“As a mentor through the Mentor Collective, I had the unique privilege of getting to interact with some of the incoming students in CECS and give them some of my personal advice on managing a busy workload, time management, making friends on campus, and simply getting involved. It's always been a thought of mine to think of what advice I'd give myself as a freshman, and through the Mentor Collective I am able to have that opportunity. Sharing personal struggles, and empathizing with students about difficult courses and even personal difficulties have helped me grow and leave a lasting impact on each of my mentee's college experiences. College can be a difficult endeavor and sometimes we can feel alone but I'm thankful to have the opportunity to bridge the gap between senior and freshman to take away that feeling for someone new to the experience as a UM-Dearborn student.”