Students Design Corvette of the Future

The Corvette of the future is taking shape in the University of Cincinnati's transportation design studio.

The studio, co-sponsored by both General Motors and Daimler-Chrysler, allows UC's industrial design students to get hands-on experience in a classroom setting. The two companies take turns advising the dozen students each quarter who pass the rigorous application process for the studio course.

"We're looking for spark and that drive and motivation to succeed," said Brigid O'Kane, who teaches the course along with Gerry Michaud. Both are associate professors in UC's School of Design.

During fall quarter, as the students suggest concepts for a next-generation Corvette, they have met with GM representatives through weekly videoconferences.

"It's important that students get a different perspective from that of the professors they work with repeatedly," O'Kane said.

In addition to real-world criticism, the students receive real-world exposure.

"The companies keep a close eye on the students they're interested in hiring," O'Kane said. "Students are motivated to be in this course for the growth and exposure it offers."

For students, this is reality-based education. "We have direct relations and experience with real designers," said junior Ben Davidson. "We receive a lot of feedback from the 'real deal.' No other class offers that."