We are the Cyclone Cowboys from Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, Oklahoma! We are interested in the future of wind energy and had created a club to spread awareness of it at Oklahoma State University and in the surrounding community.
Originally as a senior design project, the Cyclone Cowboys was opened up in 2022 as a club that any major and grade can join. That has lead to freshmen, other engineers, and other majors getting involved in wind energy. By having a diverse team, we can look at a problem and have many views on how to address it. Problem solving from different perspectives means having a unique solution, more in depth discussion, and skills from a range of people. Having team members who are proficient in everything from welding to website design currently drive our success. The rigorous curriculum of OSU means that students are equipped with skills, both theoretical and technical. Using welding machines, CNC machines, 3D printing, and other machinery skills come comfortably to students. Lastly, our team is close knit, persistent, and determined enough to overcome any obstacles.
Seniors were interested in competing in the Collegiate Wind Competition which is put on yearly by the United States Department of Energy. The CWC consists of the Turbine Contest, Project Development Contest, and Connection Creation Contest (also known as Outreach). The competition helps college students prepare for jobs in wind and renewable energy industries. By learning about finance for project development, how to CAD a turbine and blades, and reaching out to local companies or schools to raise awareness of wind energy, students learn many valuable workplace skills.