From Houghton to "Junkyard Mega-Wars"
Sam Barros, a native of Rio de Janeiro, looked at engineering programs all over the US. He settled on Michigan Tech when he found out the university emphasizes hands-on experience.
"Most engineering education seemed to be really theoretically oriented," he recalled. "I wasn't looking for that."
Barros, now a senior, has received considerable recognition for research, particularly in the area of electromagnetic acceleration. The technology is key to the development of super-fast rail transportation.
He also had the opportunity to appear on the popular Learning Channel program, "Junkyard Mega-Wars," where teams of three root around a junkyard looking for parts for a pre-determined project.
The challenge to the two competing teams was to build an off-road vehicle that could carry an open, 25-gallon container of liquid across rugged terrain without spilling a drop. The teams then had to switch vehicles and try to spill their competitors' liquid.
The future appears bright for Sam Barros. You can do the same. We invite you to come and create your future at Michigan Tech.