Description:
Southern Utah University is recruiting senior-level CAD-CAM / Engineering Technology students to support the DOE Hydropower Collegiate Competition (HCC) 2026-2027 in-conduit hydropower project. The project explores how renewable energy can be generated from existing water conveyance infrastructure, such as pipelines, conduits, canals, irrigation systems, municipal water systems, wastewater systems, or industrial water systems, without constructing a new large dam or reservoir. In-conduit hydropower uses water that is already moving through existing infrastructure and adds a turbine or energy-recovery component where technically feasible. The student will study potential system layouts, prepare modeling/drawings, support prototype planning, and help connect the Fall 2026 project work to the Spring 2027 capstone project. This Fall 2026 position is intended for students who will continue the same project as their Spring 2027 capstone. Selected students will receive scholarship-supported or paid project support during Fall 2026, conditioned on their commitment to continue the in-conduit hydropower prototype and modeling work as part of their Spring 2027 capstone.
Responsibilities:
- Review the DOE HCC rules, especially the build-and-test requirements.
- Study the basic concept of in-conduit hydropower and how turbines or energy-recovery devices may be added to existing water systems.
- Support the design team by preparing CAD models, 3D layouts, assembly drawings, component drawings, and presentation-quality visuals.
- Use approved design software such as SolidWorks, Revit, AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Inventor, Fusion 360, or similar software, depending on project needs and faculty approval.
- Prepare conceptual models showing the major parts of the system, such as pipe/conduit segments, turbine or generator placement, support frame, access area, instrumentation locations, and possible test setup.
- Assist in preparing a complete materials list for the Spring 2027 prototype, including fittings, tubing, pipe sections, supports, turbine or model components, fasteners, sensors, mounting elements, and fabrication needs.
- Work with Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, and Computer Science students to ensure the prototype model supports the full project.
Qualifications:
- Must be a senior-level CAD-CAM, Engineering Technology, or closely related student.
- Must be planning to complete a capstone project in Spring 2027.
- Must be willing to continue the in-conduit hydropower project as the Spring 2027 capstone project.
- Must be available to work consistently during Fall 2026.
- Must have experience or strong interest in CAD modeling, 3D design, technical drawings, prototyping, fabrication, and materials planning.
- Experience with SolidWorks, Revit, AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Inventor, Fusion 360, or similar software is preferred.
- Interest in renewable energy, water infrastructure, hydropower, prototype development, and applied engineering design is preferred.