Background: A resident of Alameda, Calif., Tayco has taught CO2 design and racing for two years at Eden Area R.O.P. He requires students to sketch a car, design it in a CAD program, and then shape it. Students test their vehicles in a wind tunnel and then race on a 65-foot track.
What he likes most about teaching CO2 dragster design: His students race against students from other classes at the school, which is geared toward 11th graders, 12th graders, and adults. "We love to beat the guys from the automotive programs," Tayco says. "They hate to lose to the pencil pushers."
Why he likes CO2 dragster design: "I enjoy watching the students challenge themselves and challenge other classes."
Racing honors: Tayco's students compete in Skills USA VICA of California. Last year they captured gold, silver, and bronze in the race division and silver in design.
At top, cars are lined up on the track prior to racing at Eden Area R.O.P. in Hayward, Calif.; at middle and bottom are award-winning cars built by Tayco's students.
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