Benjamin York
Benjamin York of Auburn is a leader on the award-winning Student Steel Bridge Team.
The team competes annually against some of the largest schools in the country to build the most structurally sound scale-model bridge in the fastest time. The college won a national championship in 2009, and Benjamin and his teammates are continuing a legacy of excellence.
This past spring, they persevered through COVID restrictions to finish ninth place at the national competition.
Now a senior in the Mechanical Engineering program, Benjamin said he is actively recruiting new members to whom he can pass the baton. Among the many criteria required to join this elite group is a willingness to work hard.
“We are looking for people who are enthusiastic about competing and ready to take on a challenge,” he said.
Although they are in a rebuilding year, Benjamin said he is optimistic. Recent Bridge Team alumni are pitching in as advisors, and 1972 graduate Don Garrett pledged $50,000 over the next five years to help with expenses.
“This year’s competition is going to be a challenge, but I’m excited to see what happens,” he said.