David Livingston Jr. works on his team's Formula One racer as they prepare to hit the track this spring.

"A formula car is like a rocket on wheels," said engineering student David Livingston, describing the difference between formula and mini-Baja cars. To the uninitiated, his rapid speech peppered with automotive lingo is challenging to follow. However, it is an unconcealed joy for building and racing which fuels his enthusiasm for engineering and competition.
       Livingston's passion for designing and racing is rooted in family tradition. His parents, in fact, met through racing cars.
       "[I] practically grew up on the track," said Livingston, who began racing go-carts at age 9. Later, at an age when most people trade in their learner's permit for a driver's license, he upgraded to racing formula cars.
       As a full-time engineering student and president of Vanderbilt University's Society of Automotive Engineers (VUSAE), Livingston's agenda keeps him on his toes.
       "We don't get class credit, so we're on our own," he said, regarding his VUSAE responsibilities. "It takes dedication."
       The 25 VUSAE members design and build mini-Baja vehicles, which are geared toward off-road activities, and formula cars, which are designed for smoother tracks. Adhering to specific rules and design parameters is critical. For example, engines must not exceed 600 cubic centimeters, and the racing speed must not exceed 40 mph.
       With as much as $30,000 going into vehicle production, raising money is an integral part of the process. While some of the funds come from the School of Engineering, team members solicit funds from corporations and individuals.
       "The most challenging aspect of the process is designing the car. Next, it's making the parts. We make our own spindle, suspension, drive train and chassis, and we do all of the welding," Livingston said. The students also maintain a rigorous production schedule, with each component of the car corresponding to a completion deadline.
       The formula race car, currently housed in a VUSAE project room in Jacobs Hall, is similar to an Indy-type or Formula One car, with an open-wheel and open-cockpit design. When finished, it will sport a lively black-and-gold color scheme and Vanderbilt logo. Last semester, members spent their time redesigning last year's car and training the freshmen. Since January, they have engaged in a tumult of building in order to begin racing as soon as possible.
       "It's crucial in engineering to work on vocational skills, unless you want to be stuck working in a cubicle forever," Livingston said. "This way, we're actually making what we study in class, and there is a job for every kind of engineer."
       His desire to construct is not limited to cars, however. When explaining his decision to study civil engineering, he joked that he looks forward to building "things that don't move." However, if the opportunity to become involved in professional racing presented itself, Livingston would not hesitate.
       "I would definitely jump at it," he said.
       Until that opportunity presents itself, however, Livingston is striving for national recognition for the current project.
       "My goal to be top in the country is attainable," he declared with a smile.