THE
TEAM
Fabiola Fabian Plascencia
Project Director
As project director, I manage SolarPack’s administration, coordinate collaboration between teams, and keep us true to our core mission of practical sustainability. I joined SolarPack because I want to use my mechanical engineering degree to contribute to the creation and implementation of sustainable practices. The engineers I admire the most are those who carefully consider how their designs will impact people in unexpected ways, both in the present and in the future. In my free time, I enjoy listening to musicals, playing video games, and watching Disney movies.
Maghen Lahoud
Aerodynamics Lead
As the aero team lead, I oversee the development of the aeroshell through 3D modeling and composite manufacturing. I joined SolarPack as a freshman because it aligns with my goal of eventually working in aerospace sustainability. Now, as a sophomore, I feel I've gained valuable technical and interpersonal skills while on the team. Outside of SolarPack, I enjoy hiking, swimming, traveling, trying new foods, and collecting rocks.
Will Shearin
Structures Lead
As the structures team lead, I manage a team of students whose responsibility is to model, test, and fabricate the chassis, roll cage, and other mechanical structures of the car. I am currently a senior in mechanical engineering, and I joined SolarPack right after my sophomore year. I took over as team lead after my junior year and have really enjoyed all my time here. I can see how my classroom skills translate into real-world environments, and how I can contribute to promoting sustainability. In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with friends and cooking.
Aaron Wold
Vehicle Dynamics Lead
As the vehicle dynamics team lead, I oversee the development of mechanical aspects within the car, involving systems such as suspension, steering, and powertrain. My interest in these systems stemmed from my interest in LEGO as a child. My other hobbies include playing guitar, playing videogames, and skateboarding.
Sean Harris
Technical Director
As technical director, I manage the engineering operations of the team and create timelines that allow us to achieve our goals with each car. As a mechanical engineering student minoring in renewable energy, I find myself constantly thinking about how we can become more sustainable. This is exactly what caused me to become a member of SolarPack and it is also what drove me to my current position. Outside of SolarPack, I enjoy playing soccer, listening to music, and playing a variety of card games.
Izak Durand
High Voltage Lead
As High Voltage lead, I oversee the vehicle's main power and driving systems. This includes the 3-phase motor, inverter, battery pack, and vehicle protection systems. Motor drives and high voltage systems are my forte, and Solarpack has been a fantastic opportunity to work on an
awesome project alongside wonderful team members! When I’m not working on the car, I enjoy playing tennis and rock climbing with friends.
Connor Wayman
Low Voltage Lead
As the Low Voltage team lead, I manage the systems of the car that allow it to charge using solar energy. After building solar cars in high school, I wanted to continue down that path, with SolarPack being the best opportunity for that. In my free-time, I enjoy tinkering with electronics and building PCs with friends.
Gerbrand Poster
Business Lead
As the business team lead, I oversee sponsorship, finance, social media, and outreach events for SolarPack. I am a fourth-year majoring in English who joined SolarPack in my first year after talking to Chris Ford at the Winter involvement fair. I love working with engineers--they are very sensible and have a different perspective than the humanities students I am used to. There are few things cooler or more environmentally beneficial than solar cars, and I revel in building excitement for them in potential sponsors. Outside of SolarPack I enjoy good books, fine cuisine, and indolence.