CHICAGO (WLS) – Engineers are in high demand right now in the auto industry. At the Chicago Auto Show, three Illinois universities are working to attract college-bound students to apply to their engineering programs.
The universities are creating pathways into careers in auto manufacturing. The Auto Show features a variety of exciting exhibits, including cars built by Northern Illinois University (NIU) engineering students. One of their cars is capable of reaching speeds of up to 75 mph and will be competing at the Pittsburgh Shootout this summer. These projects help recruit more engineering students to NIU by showcasing real-world applications of their skills.
The Chicago Auto Show is always the best place to see the latest and greatest models developed by engineers in the automotive field – from the fastest and most energy-efficient vehicles to the most comfortable rides. Because engineers are highly sought after, colleges see the Auto Show as a prime recruiting opportunity.
“If they see the application of engineering through motorsports, maybe they become more interested in pursuing this through their college career,” said Sabine Ramirez, an engineering student at the University of Illinois Chicago.
Students from three Illinois state universities and the Society of Automotive Engineers were on hand at the event. Dorian Wike, an NIU student, shared how the experience combines his passion for engineering and cars. “I think the thing that interests me the most about engineering is the process of seeing it start as nothing, get formed, and then see it made in the real world,” Wike explained.
Students acknowledge that the engineering field can be competitive but also offers lucrative opportunities. Many companies are actively looking to hire engineers right out of college.
“Everybody’s trying to get more engineers. From universities to industry, there’s just a huge demand for that,” said Dave Grewell, Dean of the College of Engineering at NIU.
The University of Illinois recently won first place at a Grand Prix in Kentucky in the solar-powered car division. Students believe solar power may represent the next step in the evolution of the auto industry.
“As the cost of solar panels comes down, I hope solar cars can become mainstream on our roads,” said University of Illinois engineering student Connor Magnuson.
With growing demand and innovative projects, the future looks bright for aspiring engineers interested in the automotive world.
https://abc7chicago.com/post/society-automotive-engineers-niu-uic-trying-recruit-engineering-students-2026-chicago-auto-show/18575673/