This past academic year, 18 university Fluid Power Clubs engaged 192 students in hands-on learning, mentorship, and real-world engineering experiences. Through the support of NFPA member companies, students explored fluid power systems, networked with professionals, and participated in impactful projects.
Many clubs took part in the Fluid Power Vehicle Challenge, while others created their own competitions and outreach events:
- At MSOE, students launched the Trebuchet Takedown using pneumatic Legos. “The project promoted collaboration and creativity while providing members with hands-on experience,” their report shared.
- At Cleveland State University, students toured a local NFPA member company. “Seeing how fluid power is applied in real engineering roles helped us connect theory to application,” said one student.
- University of Louisiana at Lafayette students hosted industry presentations. “These gave us a clearer understanding of how fluid power principles are applied and offered valuable networking opportunities.”
- Tennessee State University held outreach events over hot cocoa and coffee to brainstorm and demonstrate fluid power concepts. “These sessions helped refine our knowledge while highlighting fluid power’s role across industries,” students reported.
Thanks to the continued engagement of NFPA members, students are gaining the skills, experience, and connections needed to become future leaders in the fluid power industry. If your company would like to engage with one of our Fluid Power Clubs across the country, reach out to Kyla Olson at kolson@nfpa.com. Please see the full list of clubs below:
- Cleveland State University
- Iowa State University
- Kennesaw State University
- Loyola Marymount University
- Milwaukee School of Engineering
- Murray State University
- North Carolina A&T
- Northern Illinois University
- Purdue University (Fluid Power Club & Space Liquids Program)
- Purdue University Northwest
- South Dakota State University
- SUNY Polytechnic Institute
- Tennessee State University
- Texas A&M
- University of Alabama at Birmingham
- University of Cincinnati
- University of Louisiana at Lafayette
- University of Wisconsin – Madison