Where Are They Now: UT’s Ricardo Bowers

On Monday, Jan 27, EcoCAR at UT-Austin alum Ricardo Bowers had his first day at work at General Motors. 

“Lots of HR training and onboarding, but I have already met other students with similar experiences to mine,” said Bowers when asked about how his first day went. “In general, I am excited to work with my team.”

Bowers attended the University of Texas at Austin where he obtained his master’s degree in mechanical engineering in December 2024.

During the second year of his masters, Bowers joined UT’s EcoCAR team as a technical specialist, working primarily with the System Design Integration and Propulsion Controls and Modeling sub-teams. 

Over his time participating in the competition, Bowers saw firsthand the delivery of the Cadillac LYRIQ and developments the team made in the vehicle. 

“There were many times that we came across problems that we just didn't know what to do,” said Bowers. “We needed to find ways to simplify complex systems where possible, and doing that was particularly hard for me. But I enjoyed it nonetheless.”

One of Bowers’ favorite moments in the EcoCAR program was getting LEVA, UT’s LYRIQ, to drive. 

“All the students worked together to get the car driving just before the end of the semester,” he said. “We got the car to drive! It was so exciting.”

Reflecting on his time at EcoCAR, he recognized the importance of the program for prospective members looking for their space in college.

EcoCAR became a registered student organization during Year 3, allowing for a bigger variety of students to join the organization and learn more about electric vehicles and earn industry experience.

“Being able to drive an EV around with a bunch of cameras and robotic sensors strapped to the roof is such a unique and cool experience,” said Bowers. “Being in EcoCAR is the perfect time to nerd out with other people that get that.”

Now a vehicle control integration engineer at General Motors, Bowers encourages students of all majors and experience levels to look into EcoCAR at UT.

“I believe in all the students that lead and participate in EcoCAR now, and I'm sure they can one day be a top-notch competitor,” said Bowers. “In my last semester I was continually impressed with what team members accomplished, and I know they'll only continue to improve from there.”