A team of five students from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville recently competed in the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers’ International Quarter-Scale Tractor Student Design Competition in Peoria, Illinois. The team competed against 18 other teams from across the United States and Canada and took home first place in the Maneuverability category.
According to the ASABE, this annual competition provides a realistic 360-degree workplace experience. Each team is provided only an engine and set of tires and must design and create their tractor, which is then judged by a panel of industry experts for innovation, manufacturability and serviceability, among other factors. The machines also compete in three performance events – tractor pulls, a maneuverability course and a durability course.
This was the first time a UW-Platteville team returned to the competition since 2019. The team took 13th place overall.
“This contest allows students to learn valuable teamwork and communication skills, as well as practical hands-on design and professional skills that they can use in their careers. Hopefully they also gained some time management skills in the process as well,” said David Heimerdinger, assistant professor of agricultural engineering technology and manufacturing technology management.
Heimerdinger, along with Dr. Mark Zidon, professor of agricultural education, are co-advisors of the team.
“As advisors, we were very happy with how the team did at the contest,” said Heimerdinger. “Hopefully those returning can use this experience as a driving force to do even better at next year’s competition.”