By Jon M. Quigley Baja SAE Carolina 2025: Practical Projects for Engineering Students We all need a place to practice our craft.  It is not enough to have a degree in a field; it takes more than a degree, and we must learn how to apply it. The same is true for students with engineering […]

Photo is from SAE International and is a clickable link to the SAE International Baja website. Baja SAE Carolina: Behind the Scenes of an Epic Off-Road Challenge By Jon M. Quigley If you’ve ever wondered what goes into hosting a world-class engineering competition, this event is it.  From Technical Inspection protocols ensuring every student-built vehicle […]

By: Jon M. Quigley Introduction For budding engineers, theoretical knowledge alone is never enough. Practical experience plays a critical role in shaping future innovators who are well-prepared to tackle real-world problems. One such opportunity to gain hands-on exposure is Baja SAE Carolina. This premier off-road engineering competition challenges students to design, build, and race their […]

By: Jon M. Quigley Modern automotive engineering hinges on a meticulously managed Vehicle Development Lifecycle, integrating advanced verification, validation, and configuration management to meet safety, performance, and compliance demands. This blog post explores how these pillars ensure robust vehicle architecture while aligning with industry trends like software-defined vehicles and autonomous driving.  We have spent many […]

By Jon M Quigley Introduction I recently taught a FPM 513 – IT Infrastructure and Architectural Design.  I so enjoy teaching when the class, by and large, is engaged.  This led to my thinking on vehicle architecture (electrical/electronic). In automotive development, infrastructure, and architectural design are essential to ensure that vehicle systems are robust, efficient, […]

Introduction to New Product Development New product development is the process of transforming an idea into a marketable product or service. It involves market research, product design, testing, and eventually launching into the marketplace. By following a well-structured approach, businesses can reduce risks, optimize resources, and set a clear trajectory for growth.  We have spent […]

Understanding QS9000 and IATF 16949 Standards For organizations in the automotive industry, selecting and implementing the right quality management system is vital for operational excellence. Two prominent standards, QS9001 vs. IATF 16949, offer distinct frameworks for achieving quality objectives.  Over the decades, we have been involved with both approaches in many ways, from being audited […]

Recipes for Success and the Limits of Repeatability by: Jon M. Quigley Product development is often associated with processes. We would say that these processes are essentially product development recipes.  Product development and the parallels to cooking are undeniable. Both require carefully crafted recipes, skilled cooks, and adaptability when conditions change. But just like high-altitude […]

Introduction By Jon M Quigley In today’s complex and rapidly evolving technological landscape, application to product development AI, VR,  and AR tools positively reshape the way products are designed and developed. These innovative technologies enable teams to optimize concept generation, refine product and system use case requirements, and enhance verification processes, making product development more […]

Introduction to GD&T in Automotive Design Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerance (GD&T) in automotive part development is essential in designing and producing automotive components. From ensuring compatibility between mechanical parts to optimizing electrical systems like wire harnesses, GD&T defines precise requirements for form, fit, and function. This article explores GD&T’s application in automotive development, focusing on […]