Syracuse Sun

Ian Storrs, a senior at Syracuse University, joined the student organization 'Cuse Baja as a freshman with enthusiasm for building off-road vehicles. However, he found the club in disarray due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the graduation of key members. The club's vehicle was incomplete, and remaining members lacked direction.

Taking on a leadership role, Storrs focused on revitalizing 'Cuse Baja by recruiting and training new members. His efforts have paid off, transforming the club into an active competitor in national events. "The development of our current car has been a long road," Storrs stated. Through reverse-engineering and determination, they created a functional vehicle.

In September 2024, 'Cuse Baja achieved significant success at the Baja Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) competition in Michigan. The team excelled in various tests including acceleration and rock-crawling abilities. During the endurance race, they completed 15 laps, surpassing their previous record of six laps and marking a historic achievement for Syracuse University's Baja team.

"We had gone from having never been to a competition to being legitimately competitive in only one year," said Storrs proudly about their progress.

Laney Price, an aerospace engineering student, reflected on their achievements: "This year was filled with many great successes allowing our team to meet multiple goals." Despite focusing on results, Price emphasized remembering the team's excitement during challenges faced at Michigan.

Storrs' leadership not only improved his technical skills but also enhanced his ability to manage projects and build teams. He prioritized recruiting passionate students who could sustain 'Cuse Baja's growth after his graduation. "Our current success is due to the large influx of passionate and interested members over the past year," he noted.

Mechanical engineering student Riehen Walsh observed substantial growth since joining in 2023: "With a new generation car being designed... I look forward to seeing what the team can become."

As Storrs prepares for graduation, he remains optimistic about 'Cuse Baja's future contributions to Syracuse University's College of Engineering and Computer Science community: "We provide practical and hands-on experience... something that cannot be taught in class."