Beyond The Competition

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.

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

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.

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

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 [https://www.oshcut.com/academic-sponsorships]