Thomas Gilbert, a student at Michigan State University (MSU) College of Engineering, has shared how his childhood fascination with vehicles led him to pursue a career in the mobility industry. From an early age, Gilbert was captivated by cars and trucks, frequently visiting car dealerships and reading automotive magazines like Car and Driver and Popular Mechanics.
As he approached college, Gilbert sought an institution that could provide both the resources to enter the mobility industry and opportunities to hone his engineering skills through practical projects. He discovered MSU's Baja Racing Team, which boasts over 40 years of experience and backing from major automotive companies. "I joined the Baja team as soon as I could and have not looked back," he stated.
Now in his third year at MSU, Gilbert is actively working towards his dream while serving as a senior member of the Baja Racing Team. His involvement has allowed him to explore various aspects of mechanical engineering, including manufacturing, design, testing, and validation. "Through my experience with the team, I have restarted the team’s data acquisition initiatives," said Gilbert.
The support from industry professionals and MSU professors has been instrumental in revitalizing these projects. Furthermore, MSU's connections with domestic and foreign automakers have helped Gilbert secure an internship with Toyota at their North American R&D Headquarters in Ann Arbor.
Gilbert's ultimate goal is to graduate with a degree that equips him for a specific role within the mobility sector. The experiences gained through the Baja team and his internship have clarified his post-graduation aspirations. "They have prepared me for that position, giving me invaluable experience that I can’t get inside of the classroom," he concluded.
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