At Olin Electric Motorsports (OEM), we are more than just a project team. We are a close-knit family, united by a shared passion for learning through doing and creating something we care about. Founded in 2012, we are the largest project team at Olin College, and have spent the past 12 years designing, fabricating, and assembling electric vehicles. In the last 8 years we have focused our efforts on creating Formula-style electric race cars that compete in the Formula SAE electric competition. With over 60 members, our team thrives on diversity, inclusion, and mentorship, offering an environment where personal and professional growth go hand-in-hand.
From late nights working on the car to laughter shared over meals, OEM is a place where students from all walks of life come together. The memories we create along the way—whether troubleshooting in the shop or cheering each other on at competition—are what define us. We don’t just build cars; we build each other up, pushing our members to be the best versions of themselves.
About the Fundraiser: Why We Need Your Support
This year, for the first time in over 5 years, we have a fully functional and drivable car—Mk VI. It’s more than just a vehicle; it’s a symbol of the team’s resilience, dedication, and determination. We are launching a fundraising campaign to raise $10,000 by November 6th to keep Mk VI operational. This funding will allow us to purchase a new motor, motor controller, and other critical components, ensuring that we can continue collecting valuable testing data to guide the design of our next car, Mk VII. The estimated prices of new parts needed to keep Mk VI in tact are listed below:
Maintaining Mk VI is crucial for our team’s progress. After years of reusing parts from previous cars, the funds we hope to gather will help us keep Mk VI intact and operational. This not only gives us the opportunity to learn from the data we gather but also motivates the team as we work towards our ambitious goal of building a new car in just one year.
A Team That’s More Than a Team: Personal Stories from OEM Members
Our team means so much to the people who are part of it, and the moments we’ve shared are a testament to the bond that ties us together. For Shamama Sirroon ’24, a recent graduate, being part of OEM was nothing short of life-changing. She reflects:
"Having been part of the team since my first year, attending the competition as a senior was both exhilarating and daunting. I remember looking up to the upperclassmen, wondering if I could ever fill their shoes. But as the competition drew closer, I found myself inspired by the resilience and resourcefulness of everyone on the team. Even during the toughest days, when things seemed impossible, the team remained upbeat and supportive. After years of struggling with vehicles that didn’t quite make it, seeing Mk VI pass inspection and complete its first endurance lap was overwhelming. I was so proud that I was nearly brought to tears. It was a moment that captured everything we had worked for."
For Meagan Lipsman ’26, our current project manager, leading the team at competition was a transformative experience:
"I was excited to go to the competition, but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous. Everything we had worked toward for the last two years was culminating in that one week. But in just a few days, I gained so much: confidence, leadership skills, and the realization that I do have what it takes to lead this team. The most valuable thing I learned was that no challenge is too great when you have a team that truly cares about each other. Even in the most stressful moments, we remained respectful and hopeful, and that sense of unity carried us through.
These stories highlight the heart of Olin Electric Motorsports. Our team isn’t just a place to build cars—it’s a place to build lasting friendships and grow both technically and personally.
Thank You: Your Support Matters
We deeply appreciate the generosity of our community—friends, alumni, and family members who have stood by us over the years. Your contributions will directly impact our ability to keep Mk VI operational and continue pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle design.
As a token of our gratitude, we offer:
- A personalized thank-you message as soon as your gift is received.
- Special recognition in our end-of-campaign communications.
- Merch item of choice for donations over $200
More than anything, your support helps nurture the future engineers who will lead the world in sustainable transportation. OEM is a family, and we invite you to be part of our journey.
Thank you for being a part of Olin Electric Motorsports, and for helping us continue to drive innovation, resilience, and a sense of family.
