Design by: Taylor Hayes
As a car enthusiast in the Manhattan area, I have had a difficult time finding a community that feels welcoming. Over my last year here, I searched for a community of students brought together by their passion for cars. I found myself turning to campus after running into groups around Manhattan that enjoyed the danger more than the culture.
Founded to connect students through automotive culture, K-State’s Car Club is giving Manhattan a space to share their knowledge, showcase their builds and find friendships. The club is open to everyone – not just those with heavily modified drag cars – even those, like me, who drive a regular economy car. The mission of the club is to bring together those with a similar passion – helping them engage in the community and explore their passion for cars.
The club hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including car meets, cruises and different community outreach programs. The club, currently led by junior K-State student Jett Ford, is striving to maintain a family-friendly environment.
Ford was able to provide more context for the club, and how you can get involved.
Q: What inspired the creation of the club, and how has it evolved over time?
A: “The creation of the KSU Car Club was inspired by a desire to build a community on campus and beyond; where car enthusiasts can connect, exchange knowledge, and share their passion for all things automotive. Although we are a newer club, in our 6 short months, we have had the privilege of collaborating with local organizations like the Midwest Dream Car Collection and hosting successful events such as cruises and car meets. Looking ahead, we are excited to introduce our flagship monthly event, Caffeine & Cars, offering a space for the community to connect and share their passion for cars.”
Q: How would you describe the club’s culture and community?
A: “The KSU Car Club is a diverse group as cars bring together people from a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and automotive interests. Our members enjoy sharing their knowledge and experiences, creating an inclusive environment where everyone can learn, regardless of their skill level. The club is more than just about cars, it is about building connections, expanding knowledge, and creating a community where people can share their passion.”
Q: What would you say to someone who’s interested in joining, but isn’t sure they know enough about cars?
A: “If you are interested in cars but feel like you do not know enough, that is exactly why you should join. The KSU Car Club is a place to learn and grow, no matter your level of experience. Many of our members started with little knowledge but gained a deeper understanding through conversations, hands-on experiences, and events. Stop by one of our events and ask questions as everyone in the club is happy to share their insights.”
Q: How has being involved in the club helped you develop skills or connections for the future?
A: “Being involved in the KSU Car Club has allowed me to meet some of my closest friends, as it is a great avenue for connecting with others who share a passion for cars. It has also helped me build valuable social skills, learning to communicate effectively whether discussing car builds with fellow enthusiasts or collaborating with local businesses and sponsors.”
Q: How do you see the club growing or changing in the next few years?
A: “The vision for the KSU Car Club is to expand our reach and strengthen our presence both on campus and in the broader community. One of our main goals is to establish our monthly Caffeine & Cars as a major community event, bringing families, auto enthusiasts, alumni, and students together to share their passion for cars and build a connected, vibrant community. We believe automotive events are a powerful way to bring people together and strengthen the community, and we are excited to host more events that allow us to give back and inspire others.”