The SCCA Foundation works to ensure that future generations will have the same opportunity to compete in amateur motorsports as we enjoy today. One way the Foundation has pursued this objective is providing support to Formula SAE. On Oct. 11-12, 2025, Raleigh Boreen (SCCA Foundation Board member) and Andrew Benagh (SCCA Solo program Administrative Manager) attended the Formula SAE Workshop held in Lincoln, NE, sharing their knowledge, insights, and perspective about SCCA and its relevance to the auto engineers of tomorrow.
Raleigh discussed how participating in the FSAE program can profoundly impact students’ future and is complimented by engagement in motorsports through the SCCA. He related how Jim Campbell, Head of GM Motorsports, shared how student involvement in FSAE often signals to major employers a candidate’s readiness for advanced stages in the hiring process. This recognition reflects the practical skills acquired through FSAE, such as:
- Collaborative teamwork
- Decision-making capabilities
- Problem-solving proficiency
- Effective communication under pressure
- Goal-setting and achievement
- Idea-sharing within group environments
- Adaptability to new challenges
- Project and team leadership
Reading that list, it likely occurs to you that these skills also lend themselves well to multiple SCCA motorsports roles whether as a driver, crew member, or event official. Multiple industry leaders reconfirmed this perspective, noting that FSAE alumni routinely advance quickly during recruitment for engineering roles. Participation in FSAE fosters essential experiences that extend well beyond academic achievement and prepares students for careers.
The influence of FSAE extends notably into motorsports. Raleigh noted how every IndyCar team includes at least one former FSAE participant, while prominent figures in NASCAR – such as Alba Colon, who built an exemplary career after her start with the University of Puerto Rico’s FSAE team – attribute their professional success to lessons learned through the program. Similarly, Bill Riley transitioned from GM to Tesla before joining SpaceX, and Todd Bowlan’s engineering innovations at Joe Gibbs Racing, followed his tenure on Ohio State’s FSAE team.
Raleigh explained the opportunities that SCCA represents for those passionate about motorsports. He spoke of how driver, crew, and event staff competencies developed as part of an FSAE team directly translates to SCCA events and community. The networking opportunities available through SCCA can further influence long-term career and personal growth for those early on their motorsports path.
Raleigh closed his formal remarks by encouraging attendees to engage with Andrew and himself regarding their FSAE experiences and to learn more about SCCA.
Foundation funding made it possible for Andrew to attend in order to represent SCCA staff. He used this unique opportunity to engage with college-aged potential future members, raising awareness of the many motorsports opportunities available through the SCCA.
The Foundation’s outreach to this core audience of future SCCA members is made possible in part by funding raised through the amazing 2026 Monaco Grand Prix Sweepstakes. In conjunction with this article, the Foundation is providing a 30% bonus in entries for anyone who donates using promo-code FSAE30 at this link:
Visit the SCCA Foundation’s website for more information on FSAE and the Foundation.
Photo by Will Huxtable
