March 28, 2016  

Purdue to partner with the National Hot Rod Association

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — The National Hot Rod Association and Purdue University have partnered to expand science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs and advance motorsports technology.

"Purdue has found that motorsports is an absolutely incredible way to truly enliven the STEM discipline," said Jim Caruthers, professor of chemical engineering. "Often times, STEM is taught in an abstract way, but we have learned how to deconstruct technology inside a motorsports vehicle to the basic science and math."

Purdue has a rich motorsports background through partnerships with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the Verizon IndyCar Series and Italian chassis supplier, Dallara. Now, Purdue plans to expand its motorsports STEM (MSTEM3) program with a three-year agreement to be the engineering and technology partner of the NHRA.

Caruthers said the initial focus will be to extend the program into middle schools.

"This provides significant motivation for students to learn STEM and provides a way for us to celebrate their success through academic and racing competitions," he said.

One of the main areas of focus on the NHRA side will be the Jr. Drag Racing League. The JDRL offers kids, ages 5-17, the chance to compete in a dragster that is half-scale to the powerful Top Fuel cars. Purdue and the NHRA hope to use the program to bolster MSTEM3 and explore an electric version of the series.

"We are looking forward to the alliance with Purdue," Tim White, NHRA director of engineering said. "We will be able to share information and collaborate to expand STEM into new schools and events."

White also said there will be a research and development link between the two parties.

Students and faculty at Purdue will have the chance to help NHRA improve its technology through research and innovation. Their research could include work on fuels, aerodynamic packages or even engine components.

"As a leading motorsports series, the NHRA offers both STEM and career opportunities for our students," said Danny White, manager of Purdue Motorsports.

Writer: Megan Huckaby, 765-496-1325, mhuckaby@purdue.edu

Sources: Jim Caruthers, 765-494-6625, caruther@purdue.edu

Danny White, 317-632-0716, white66@purdue.edu

Tim White, 317-969-8631

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