Pillars of Excellence

Our Four Pillars

The Association of Competitive Engineers (ACE) develops engineering talent through four interconnected pillars: Outreach, Competition, Education, and Research. These areas guide the organization's activities and provide Texas Tech University students with opportunities to apply their knowledge through hands-on engineering experiences, collaborative projects, and technical development.

Through student-led initiatives, faculty connections, and industry partnerships, ACE works to expand access to practical engineering experiences. Its activities range from robotics competitions and technical workshops to STEM engagement and applied robotics research.

Outreach

ACE connects with students and the broader community through robotics demonstrations, recruiting events, showcases, and STEM engagement activities. These opportunities introduce engineering concepts to students at the grade-school and collegiate levels while encouraging participation in hands-on technical activities.

One of ACE's outreach initiatives is Robot in 3 Days (RI3D), a collaborative robotics challenge that takes participants through an accelerated engineering design and build process. ACE also participates in demonstrations and events that showcase student engineering projects and promote interest in robotics.

Competition

Competition provides ACE members with opportunities to apply engineering principles under real-world constraints. Through combat robot testing, Fight Night events, and preparation for external competitions, students work together to design, build, evaluate, and improve their robots.

ACE currently supports eight student-led combat robotics teams. Members develop experience in computer-aided design (CAD), manufacturing, electronics, testing, and iterative engineering while learning to balance performance, weight, reliability, cost, and project schedules.

Learn more about ACE's upcoming events and competitive activities on the Competitions page.

Education

ACE provides learning opportunities outside the classroom through open lab sessions, technical workshops, and teaching nights. Members can develop practical skills in CAD, programming, electronics, manufacturing, and project planning while working alongside other students.

Regular teaching nights and lab activities allow students with different experience levels to build their knowledge and contribute to engineering projects. These experiences support hands-on learning and help members develop the technical and collaborative skills used in robotics development.

Open Lab Schedule

• Tuesdays: 7:00–8:30 p.m., including teaching nights
• Saturdays: 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
• Location: ACE Lab, Building 460, Reese Technology Center

Research

ACE supports applied robotics research through projects connected with Texas Tech University faculty and industry partners. These initiatives provide opportunities for students to explore engineering challenges beyond traditional classroom assignments and contribute to technical development.

Current research activities include a General Motors robot project with Dr. Tiomkin and work involving artificial intelligence in robots with Liangkai Liu. Through these projects, ACE members gain exposure to applied robotics research and the development of engineering solutions.

Looking Ahead: 2026–2027

ACE's priorities for the 2026–2027 academic year include strengthening combat robot testing and reliability, expanding applied research, increasing industry involvement, preparing for external competitions, and broadening outreach activities. These priorities build upon the organization's four pillars and its commitment to developing engineering talent through practical experience.

Students interested in participating in ACE's activities can learn more about membership, open labs, and opportunities to get involved on the Join Us page.