EESC-USP Formula SAE
I joined the team in March 2022 and, within my first days at university, I was captivated by a group of students building a Formula-style racing car. Despite being a first-year student both at USP and within the Aerodynamics subsystem, I took on the responsibility of leading the team and ensuring the delivery of the aerodynamic package for the national competition — a challenging task, but one I embraced with confidence and determination. In addition to leading the development, I was also responsible for presenting the aerodynamics design at the competition, where we achieved second place among the best aerodynamic projects.
The following year, I continued as Head of Aerodynamics, responsible for developing, manufacturing, testing and validating the entire aerodynamic package. During this period, my team and I decided to innovate once again: to design and manufacture a completely new aerodynamic package from scratch — something the team had never attempted before. To make this idea feasible, I proposed wings with solid structural-foam cores, significantly reducing mass and speeding up the manufacturing process. After many long nights, we delivered a fully new package — redesigned, re-engineered, simulated and validated throughout the year. Beyond the technical development, the project strengthened my leadership, communication and management skills. Our collective effort paid off: the following year, we won the award for Best Aerodynamics in Brazil.
Since then, I have taken on several positions within the team. As Static Events Coordinator, I was responsible for integrating all project presentations and ensuring that each subsystem performed at its best. To achieve this, I studied technical concepts from every area, contributing directly to the overall evolution of the project. At the same time, I was responsible for finite-element structural simulations of composite components, developing and analysing all composite parts of the prototype. Through this work, I gained in-depth knowledge of FEA, solid mechanics and composite behaviour, simulating everything from non-structural components to critical elements such as the steering column.
My passion for Aerodynamics and CFD has always been present. Even after stepping down from leadership roles, I continued to participate actively in aerodynamic projects and to deepen my understanding of the field. This motivation led me to pursue various courses, specialisations and additional training. Today, I can proudly say that I have become a CFD specialist — and it all began with the opportunity to join Formula SAE.
I am extremely proud to have seen the team become national champions and earn the chance to represent Brazil in Michigan. But more than the achievements, what truly remains are the people and the moments. I am deeply grateful to the team, the car, and everyone who shared this journey with me. These were intense years: sleepless nights, technical challenges, frustrating tests, unforgettable moments, laughter and even a few tears. I built friendships that I will carry for life, discovered the professional field I want to pursue, and lived some of the most meaningful chapters of my story. Formula SAE was — and always will be — one of the most valuable experiences of my life. To those who lived these moments with me, thank you. And to those who have not yet experienced it: do it. It is worth every second.
