USI engineering students earn top honors at solar-powered boat competition
Students pose for a photo with awards in front of a lake in Springfield, Ohio.
The University of Southern Indiana Solar Splash Team brought home an array of honors at the annual solar boating competition in Springfield, Ohio. The team, consisting of seven students, advised by Dr. Paul Kuban, Professor of Engineering, earned first place in the slalom event, second place in the sprint event and took home second place overall.
In addition, the team received awards for outstanding drive train design and outstanding workmanship.
The competition, often called the "World Championship of Collegiate Solar Boating," challenges students to apply engineering skills in a real-world, hands-on environment.
Last year, the team completely redesigned the boat for the 2025 competition, a very time-consuming process, which left room for a few major upgrades to be implemented in 2026, particularly targeting the steering and telemetry systems with other minor additions.
Supported by faculty advisor Kuban and Dr. Keith Pate, Assistant Professor of Engineering, as well as USI’s cutting-edge facilities, the team will continue refining and advancing their design while building on this year’s success.
“Competitions like Solar Splash embody the hands-on learning experience that defines our engineering program,” said Kuban. “Our students are challenged to take an idea from concept to competition, working through real design constraints and technical challenges along the way. Their performance this year demonstrates not only their engineering ability, but also their dedication, teamwork and resilience.”
For more information about USI’s Engineering Department, visit USI.edu/engineering.