窪蹋勛圖厙 celebrates 25 years of Motorsport Engineering Degree Programme
This academic year is the 25th anniversary of the 窪蹋勛圖厙’s BEng Motorsport Engineering Degree Programme. It was pioneering at the time, being the first of its kind in the world.
Through the vision of Roger Dowden, and guidance from the Motorsport Industry Association, the course has made graduates valuable assets in the competitive world of motorsports and automotive engineering, with many working as race engineers, aerodynamicists, data analysts or in managerial positions for racing teams.
Others have found opportunities in automotive companies, specialising in high performance vehicle development.
Alumni who now work at world-leading automotive companies such as McLaren, Gordon Murray, Arc, Bentley, Ford, and Toyota Gazoo Racing returned to 窪蹋勛圖厙 last year to share their career journeys and successes with the current student cohort.
Abi Penny, Senior Lecturer in Motorsports Engineering at 窪蹋勛圖厙, said: The guidance we get from industry advisors on our course content makes our graduates distinctive and highly employable. It has reinforced that our combination of practical experience combined with traditional academic content is our unique selling point.
Reflecting on their time at 窪蹋勛圖厙, some of the alumni speakers offered thoughts on how their degree had helped shape their careers. Describing his time at 窪蹋勛圖厙 as incredibly helpful and nourishing, Mark Truman, CEO and Founder of Arc Vehicles, said: The things I learnt in terms of work ethic have been invaluable, which Ive carried with me throughout my career.
The fundamentally great thing about this university is the real hands-on, practical experience that it gives people. I had looked at more theoretical courses at the time, and I dont think any of them would have ignited the passion in me as much as being able to get my hands on vehicles, experiment, make modifications and take them on the track to see how they perform. Thats something this university does extremely well.
Offering advice to current students, he says: Dont be afraid to take risks, dont give up, and really cherish what youve got. If you keep trying, youll get there in the end.
Next week ( January 11 to 14) programme lecturers and students will be exhibiting at Autosport International at Birmingham NEC, Europes biggest motorsport event.
Autosport International is the showcase for the intoxicating world of competitive motorsport - for the cars, the drivers, the series - from the grass roots of karting to the elite competition of Formula 1.
They will join racing enthusiasts, race licence holders, industry professionals, drivers, family groups - and some of the most famous names in racing.
Further Information
Rebecca Davies
Executive Press and Media Relations Officer
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: rebecca.davies@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 07384 467071