Mechanical Engineering major Mark F. Czajkowski '08 presented his wind turbine research to New York State legislators in Albany in January.

Working with Prof. Ken Visser, Czajkowski is evaluating the feasibility of novel vertical axis wind turbine using contra-rotating rotors as a means to supplement home heating requirements. A preliminary economic analysis has shown that it could be cost-effective for a homeowner to heat his/her home using a wind-powered heating system.  This could reduce the estimated $2,246 annual heating cost of the average household in the Northeast

Mechanical Engineering deals with the design and manufacture of mechanical systems. They make an impact in almost every aspect of modern society, due to their vital roles in the design and production of all material goods. Areas of study include machine design, robotics, manufacturing processes, thermodynamics and engines, fluid flow, composite materials properties, dynamics, acoustics, finite element analysis, and computer-aided design. Specific fields of study can range from biomechanics and assistive technologies for the disabled to automation and robotics systems, engine and propulsion systems, and the design of ships, submarines, aircraft and spacecraft. More information on the advantages of coming to Clarkson for this career path can be found here.

Aeronautical Engineering is a specialized but highly diverse field of study. It encompasses such exciting areas as aircraft design, low and high-speed aerodynamics, light-weight structures, stability and control of aerospace vehicles, and propulsion system design. Careers options include tasks ranging from airframe design, wind tunnel testing, engine design and testing, and flight testing of new vehicles, to the design of airliner cabin comfort systems. High speed trains, space station structures and underwater vehicles are just some of the exciting options for Aeros. Extra-curricular opportunities such as the AIAA Student Paper Competition in Syracuse this year and the Design, Build and Fly competition in Wichita, KS, provide real world experiences. Additional information about this career path and the advantages of a Clarkson education can be downloaded here.