Mission
The mission of the UTC Solar Decathlon is to equip students with essential building science knowledge, hands-on experience, and specialized training in energy-efficient construction. This initiative prepares them to become the future workforce of the clean energy building industry. Our vision is to construct affordable, energy-zero homes in the coming years through a collaborative effort involving participating students, external mentors, and sponsors. This endeavor aims to create a significant positive impact on the Chattanooga community.
What We Do
Modular Home Innovation
This project is where environmental responsibility meets modern living. Our Eco-Modular Home Innovation is a venture into creating spaces that are both environmentally friendly and modularly designed for adaptability. We focus on sustainable materials and construction methods that respect our planet while offering practical and aesthetic appeal.
The heart of our project lies in its ability to blend seamless design with ecological sensitivity. It’s an exploration of how homes can be more than just living spaces - they can be a testament to responsible and forward-thinking design.
Student-Led Construction
In our Student-Led Construction project, we bring a fresh perspective to building and design. Driven by the enthusiasm and skills of students, this project represents a unique blend of academic learning and practical application. Our team navigates through the complexities of construction, embracing challenges and turning them into learning opportunities.
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This journey is about more than constructing a building; it’s about cultivating leadership, fostering collaboration, and contributing to sustainable building practices. It's an immersive experience that shapes not just structures, but also the future leaders of the industry.
Modernizing Energy Systems
Our work with aerogel technology in home energy systems is about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Aerogel isn’t just another material; it’s a game-changer for energy efficiency. We’re exploring its applications in innovative ways – from high-performance insulation in windows to its role in enhancing solar energy systems.
Our experiments are revealing how we can significantly reduce energy consumption while maintaining comfort and efficiency in homes. This endeavor is more than just a technical achievement; it’s a step towards a more sustainable and energy-conscious future in homebuilding.
University of Tennessee Chattanooga
An Overview Our University
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) stands as a beacon of higher education in the heart of Chattanooga, Tennessee. As a crucial component of the University of Tennessee System, UTC has been imparting quality education since its inception in 1886. The university prides itself on a comprehensive academic framework that encompasses a wide array of programs across undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels. Home to several colleges, including the Colleges of Arts and Sciences, Business, Health, Education, and Professional Studies, UTC is dedicated to fostering a nurturing environment that promotes academic excellence, research innovation, and community engagement. This commitment is evident in the university's extensive curriculum, which is designed to blend theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring students are well-prepared for the demands of the global workforce. Situated in downtown Chattanooga, the campus offers a dynamic urban experience, enriched by cultural events, internship opportunities, and a plethora of recreational activities, making student life both enriching and vibrant.
College of Engineering and Computer Science
The College of Engineering and Computer Science is a cornerstone of UTC, renowned for its rigorous academic standards and emphasis on experiential learning. Offering a diverse range of programs in fields such as Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Computer Science, the college aims to prepare students for the challenges of the evolving technological landscape. The curriculum is meticulously designed to provide a solid foundation in engineering principles, augmented by hands-on experience through state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities. Faculty members are distinguished by their scholarly achievements and active engagement in cutting-edge research, covering areas like sustainable energy solutions, smart systems technology, cybersecurity, and advanced materials engineering. This environment encourages a culture of innovation and collaboration, where faculty and students alike contribute to impactful projects that address some of today’s most pressing technological challenges.
Community Engagement and Real-World Application
Beyond its academic prowess, UTC is deeply embedded in the Chattanooga community, striving to create a symbiotic relationship that benefits both students and the local population. Through community service initiatives, cooperative education programs, and public-private partnerships, the university has established a platform for civic engagement and professional development. This interaction not only enhances the educational experience by providing real-world exposure and networking opportunities but also reinforces UTC’s commitment to social responsibility and economic development in the region. The university’s holistic approach to education, combining rigorous academic study with community involvement and professional experience, sets a distinctive standard for preparing well-rounded graduates who are ready to make meaningful contributions to society and their respective fields.
Current Team Members
Sungwoo Yang
Faculty Advisor
Chemical Engineering Professor
Alexis Cosey
Project Architect
Interior Architecture
Serenity Atchley
Communications Coordinator
Mechanical Engineering
Kris Bowers
Team Member
Chemical Engineering
Caleb Kouvarakis
Team Member
Chemical Engineering
Connor Mackey
Student Team Lead, Project Engineer
Mechanical Engineering
David Brown
Sponsorship Coordinator
Mechanical Engineering
Caroline High
Site Operations Coordinator
Civil Engineering
Savannah Moore
Team Member
Civil Engineering
Tyler Lynn
Instrumentation Contact
Chemical Engineering
Logan Sprauge
Project Manager, Structural Engineer
Civil Engineering
Abel Binoy
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineering
Sam Bailey
Team Member
Chemical Engineering
Ashton Vernon
Contest Captain
Chemical Engineering
Caleb York
Health and Safety Coordinator
Chemical Engineering