Sigma Gamma Tau named Peter Washabaugh, Arthur F. Thernau Professor of Aerospace Engineering, as recipient of the 2017 Silver Shaft Award. Michigan Aero students elected Professor Washabaugh as the faculty member who best demonstrated the qualities of “exceptional student instruction, clarity, sincerity and enthusiasm for aerospace.” This is the third time in five years that Professor Washabaugh has received this award.
Professor Washabaugh is beloved for his instruction of the ENG 100 and AERO 205 courses, which allow students to build, test and race blimps and hovercrafts. These student projects are exhibited bi-annually during “Aerospace Day,” which Professor Washabaugh has helped grow into an Aerospace Department semester highlight.
His research interests include experimental solid mechanics, fracture mechanics, instrumentation, non-destructive testing and optimization.
To learn more, visit. Dr. Washabaugh’s faculty page.