Meet 2023 Spring Textbook Stipend Winner Javier Corona
Posted: July 31, 2023
Javier Corona wants to make a positive impact on the mobility industry and STEM community—and he’s counting on SAE International connections to help him achieve his goal.
As a third-year mechanical engineering student at Fresno State University, Corona has been actively involved in multiple extracurricular activities related to his major to gain more knowledge of the industry. During his undergraduate career, he has taken on a leadership role within his university’s Baja SAE team and currently serves as Vice President of Bulldog Racing.
Baja SAE teams are tasked with designing and building an off-road vehicle that will survive the severe punishment of rough terrain. Each team's goal is to design and build a single-seat, all-terrain, sporting vehicle whose structure contains the driver. The vehicle is to be a prototype for a reliable, maintainable, ergonomic, and economic production vehicle which serves a recreational user market.
“As the team lead for this project, I am responsible for designing the entire vehicle in SolidWorks and Catia, ensuring it passes safety protocols through the use of FEA and stress diagrams, and managing a team of steering and brakes, chassis, drivetrain, and suspension team leads,” Corona said. “This responsibility has enabled me to develop my project management and leadership skills, which will be invaluable as I progress in my career.”
In addition to his role at Bulldog Racing, Corona had the opportunity to work with the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) designing and 3D printing components for an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), along with the California Air Resources Board (CARB) as a research assistant. Both internships provided hands-on experience using engineering principles from the classroom and applying them to solve real-world problems.
With experience in both the automotive and aerospace sectors, Corona is confident that the knowledge and skills he’s gained in design, fabrication, and project management will enable him to make significant contributions to the field. He credits many of his opportunities to his connection with SAE.
“One of my most significant engagements has been with SAE International, which has provided me with numerous opportunities to network with professionals, attend conferences and competitions, and participate in design challenges. Through my participation in SAE International, I have been able to build a strong foundation in the mobility industry, which will enable me to make a significant impact after graduation.”
Corona was selected as one of SAE’s 2023 Spring Textbook Stipend winners. Recipients of the textbook stipend receive $1000 to help with the cost of textbooks.
Congratulations, Javier! We can’t wait to see all you accomplish.