Making the Impossible Possible
Every fall, CCC designs, builds, and tests a completely new canoe engineered from concrete mixtures to compete in the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) national Concrete Canoe competition. Our team’s mission is to collaboratively develop the most innovative canoe possible.
Vision
Our team’s vision is to create an improved lightweight concrete canoe able to float in water, while also focusing on a sustainable and environmentally friendly design.
Team Structure
Whatever Floats Our Boat
Our team consists of four sub-teams, each with an integral purpose and role in our canoe design
Aesthetics
The Aesthetics Subteam is responsible for bringing the visual identity of Concrete Canoe to life. Each year, we select a unique theme and design all related graphics and artwork, including the canoe’s exterior design, display board, competition shirts, and other relevant visuals. Our work ensures the team’s presentation is cohesive, creative, and impactful both on and off the water.
Mix
The Mix Subteam researches and implements new materials to develop a unique, lightweight, and robust concrete mix with a heavy emphasis on sustainability and strength. We employ iterative design techniques to determine ideal material ratios for the structural, patch, and aesthetic concrete mixes.
Mold & Analysis
The Mold & Analysis Subteam leads the innovative research and design efforts that define the speed, stability, maneuverability, comfort, and structural integrity of our boat’s hull and shape - key factors behind our team’s competitive edge. In addition, we oversee all construction initiatives, determining the most structurally sound ways to cast, cure, and safely demold the canoe.
Business & Logistics
The Business Subteam manages the financial and logistical backbone of the team. We oversee budgeting and inventory to ensure every subteam has the resources they need, coordinate travel and accommodations for competitions and events, and lead outreach efforts with sponsors, alumni, and the broader Cornell community. We also design and maintain the team’s website to showcase our work and connect with supporters. Our efforts keep the team organized, funded, and ready to compete at the highest level.
