Motorsports is one of the fastest-growing and economically-sound industries in the nation. The motorsports industry and related automotive and cycle industries demand highly-skilled employees. Innovative ways of doing business in this extremely competitive environment demand sophisticated and technically trained personnel. The Brooks Institute is helping meet these demands.

Through partnerships with industry, Clemson University is able to deliver significant results using applied research in engineering, marketing, management and communications. Clemson's research currently benefits racing series and teams such as NASCAR, NHRA, American Le Mans and industry partners such as Ford, GM, Chrysler, BMW, Michelin and Rockwell Automation. Under the direction of Clemson University's outstanding professors, students conduct research for and work as interns with companies to become highly desirable employees. Some full-time faculty are exclusively responsible for research allowing Clemson to quickly deliver research results.

Utilizing focus groups, brand awareness studies and contingency award research, along with hospitality and event management, the students and professors in marketing and management can respond to industry needs. From development of effective ads and broadcast messages, Clemson University's communications students and professors are the nation's leaders in the field as recognized by Time Magazine. They are also a significant part of the Brooks Institute's Motorsports Research Program.

As a result of this type of motorsports research, Mr. Don Rice has developed the Center for Motorsports Excellence to give the motorsports world a sole source for all types of research and development. By combining the technologies of associated universities with Clemson University's capabilities, the Brooks Institute develops and responds quickly to any automotive industry research need.

Engineering students and faculty are engaged in highly technical research in the following areas:

• Advanced materials development (metal, composite and
  ceramic)
• Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for motorsports and
  industry partners
• Vehicle chassis software
• Kinetic chassis software
• Portable 3-D digital measuring device development
• Virtual Wind Tunnel development
• Advanced industrial prototyping
• Advanced materials and manufacturing
• Composite materials capabilities and development
• Rapid precision manufacturing
• Finite element analysis
• Thermal engine controls
• Heat dissipating values
• EB-electron beam technology
• Dynamometer testing and methodology