E-Week 2010 wows the crowd

Technology and tradition shaped the UNL College of Engineering’s 97th E-Week, April 19-23, with the theme “One Century, One Solution: Nebraska Engineering.”

The events’ co-chairs, seniors Scott Sorenson and Garrett Hummel, noted that “E-Week is a time to celebrate engineering experiences and opportunities.” Their plans brought together current and prospective students as well as alumni during the conclusion of the college’s centennial year.

One evening found engineering student organizations building mini-golf attractions that added interest in Othmer Hall. On another morning, the “Faculty Flip” gathered engineering leaders to cook pancakes for students near the Engineering Library.

A returning favorite activity was Thursday night’s Mr. Engineer pageant, which added a Ms. Engineer competition this year. The contest was followed by a new addition: the Engineering Formal, held in UNL's new Gaughan Multicultural Center. Engineering students were back at Othmer bright and early Friday morning to lead Open House, which welcomed hundreds of middle- and high-school guests. Visitors viewed senior project displays and tested their skills in engineering challenges such as building ping-pong ball launchers and egg drop devices.

E-Week Open House keynote speaker Brian Halla, executive chairman of National Semiconductor, shared his path from UNL electrical engineering student to corporate leader. He showed off his Tesla vehicle and predicted that soon many of us will be driving electric cars.

A graduate research symposium also impressed Open House attendees with scholarships and honors for top presentations and academic performance. View the slideshow below for photo highlights from the events.