The pursuit of excellence is a hallmark of NASCAR, the University of Arkansas and the College of Engineering, and they all came together April 11 when TRICON driver Brandon Jones raced under the U of A colors and iconic Razorbacks logos in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series at Bristol Motor Speedway in Bristol, Tennessee.
Brandon Jones is the son of College of Engineering alumnus JR Jones B.S.M.E.’82, who generously donated the series sponsorship. Jones is executive chairman and longtime CEO of Rheem Manufacturing, a world leader in water heating and HVAC equipment. He was inducted into the college’s Hall of Fame in 2019 and is a member of the Arkansas Academy of Mechanical Engineering and the college’s Founders’ Circle supporting strategic plan Vision 2035. He is an emeritus member of the college’s Dean’s Advisory Council.
Brandon Jones said it was meaningful to him to drive with the Razorbacks and College of Engineering logos emblazoned on his truck.
*This post is condensed from a longer article by Jennifer Cook published in the fall 2025 issue of Arkansas Magazine. Cook was the director of communications University of Arkansas College of Engineering.
