UNLV Engineers innovate for competition ahead of graduation

LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Before UNLV Engineering students walk the stage for graduation, they participate in their senior capstone projects.

The Fred and Harriet Cox Senior Design Competition is the culmination of their work.

More than 180 students across nearly 40 teams innovate at their bi-annual capstone competition.

Student teams use real Vegas issues like the Formula One Koval Lane and Flamingo Road bridge by redesigning the structure so the drivers connect better with the community.

Calvert Hose and his team wanted to address business owners plagued by the bridge. Their project proposes a permanent bridge with more access and more travel lanes.

“Our bridge is better than what was because there is four lanes instead of three so people can more easily turn left,” Hose said. “By adding an extra traffic light, it is easier to access local businesses.”

Professor of Civil Engineering David James explained the capstone project resembles real-world practice.

“You have to put it all together. All your learning, technical, writing, economics, design and modeling courses.”

Addressing the issues and designing solutions.

Brianna Cramner’s team project revolved around the upcoming high-speed train, Brightline West. She explained the real project will be a single track, and there needs to be a side track where the trains need to pass each other, so they designed one.

While their work is strictly for educational purposes, the students gathered information from the real project companies.

The projects teach logistics, and advance student education.

The students are also competing for cash prizes. Winners will be announced tomorrow.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.