The NFPA Technology and Education Foundation launched a new program last year to support Fluid Power Clubs at the college level. The goal of the clubs is to get engineering students introduced to and interested in fluid power, support club activities, and connect students to industry professionals to learn about careers in fluid power.
Members of the Colorado State University Fluid Power Club
Four-year colleges or universities that offer a Bachelor of Science degree are eligible to apply. Clubs must have at least three student members with one at or below the junior level. The college must also provide a faculty advisor who oversees fluid power club activities and must offer at least one course that has fluid power content (hydraulics or pneumatics).
Students will learn about fluid power while working on educational and technical projects, and other fun activities, including the NFPA Vehicle Challenge, access to guest speakers and mentors, job opportunities and leadership experience and professional development.
The Colorado State University created a club last year. According to Riley Abbott, President of the Colorado State University Fluid Power Club, membership has been growing, from three to 11 members.
“The club hopes to build on its momentum to make sure that Colorado State University has a place for students to learn about hydraulics and pneumatics,” Abbot said. “The group decided on focusing on three different aspects of the club: knowledge through application, guidance through networking, and giving back through service. One of the ideas for this semester that has drawn the most support has been a competition between two teams to see who can make a device to lift the most weight!
“The club has found a great home at Colorado State University where it can nurture interested minds on fluid power and will continue to do so!”
For information, email Amy Zignego, azignego@nfpa.com.
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