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How can I get into the racing industry as a mechanical engineer?

I am a high school senior and in my final semester of high school. I am interested in pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering as I pursue my dream of becoming a race engineer. How can I start to take steps to achieve my goal in the racing industry?

college engineering technology science engineer mechanical-engineering mechanical
Thank you comment icon Hi there! I don't have an engineering background or know much of anything about racing, but I think your question is perfect for ChatGPT. Hope that helps in your search. Sounds like you're on the right track, in terms of looking for a job that mixes your interest and skills. :) Loreál Andrews-Fontenette, JDMBA
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Jed’s Answer

One other thing to consider would be mentoring a high school team in robotics during your undergrad studies. These are yearly competitions that require mechanical, electrical, systems, and software engineering, but also drive teams and a pit crew -- a good example is http://www.firstinspires.org.
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Vikram’s Answer

Hi Gustavo, I think a Mechanical Engineering degree is a great step towards a race engineer career. Besides giving you the necessary foundation, it will also give you some broader career options in case you decide down the line that a related industry or career is a better fit. Remember, interests can change over time as you amass more knowledge, and that's totally fine. If very keen on being a race engineer, narrow your search to colleges with a related program or affiliated with some of the top racing programs/teams. Better yet if you can talk to someone in the industry or the role you're targeting.
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bill’s Answer

Firstly, it's important to remember that a college degree isn't the only route to success. Technical schools can provide excellent training in fields like automobile construction and maintenance, particularly focusing on engine and transmission work. There are numerous tech schools that offer foundational knowledge in these areas.

Once you've acquired the basics, you can gain practical experience by joining a race team, even if it means starting at the bottom. Pay close attention to the seasoned professionals; they're often patient and eager to share their wisdom with newcomers. This hands-on learning can be incredibly valuable, potentially even more so than a traditional college degree.

However, if you're set on earning a degree, consider studying a range of subjects such as engineering, mathematics, physics, and computer programming. While these subjects can certainly enhance your knowledge, they may not guarantee employment. On the other hand, technical schools are specifically designed to equip you with skills that are directly applicable to job opportunities. So, remember, there are multiple paths to success, and the choice is yours!
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Melody’s Answer

Hello Gustavo,

To excel in this field, it's crucial to have a solid foundation in mechanical engineering. Nowadays, many successful individuals hold degrees in mechanical engineering or a related discipline. However, academic qualifications are just the beginning. You also need a wealth of hands-on experience, especially in trackside operations. This job isn't solely about engineering; it requires quick and sound decision-making skills too.

Wondering what to focus on in school?
Mathematics and physics are fundamental subjects, along with any practical, technology-based courses. These will provide you with the necessary theoretical background.

What additional skills could be beneficial?
Experience with cars is invaluable! A calm demeanor and the ability to perform well under pressure are also important. But above all, experience reigns supreme. Working with a high-level race team can provide you with a deep understanding of operational procedures.

Looking for advice on gaining work experience?
Any form of work experience can be incredibly beneficial. My first hands-on experience was with a local Clio Cup Team in Sheffield during my university years, and I learned a great deal. Remember, all cars, regardless of their complexity, share fundamental principles. Understanding how a race team and a race weekend operate is crucial. Soak up as much knowledge as you can. Whether it's a paid or unpaid position, every experience contributes to your development.

I hope this guidance propels you forward on your exciting journey.
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Karin’s Answer

Hi Gustavo,

You have several option to pursue your desire to work in the racing industry.

You could study mechanical engineering or electrical engineering, or possibly also computer engineering. Those are general engineering degrees that prepare you for all kinds of industries and keep your options open. You also have a wide choice of universities. Most of them will not specifically prepare you for the racing industry though. It would be more or less up to you to find opportunities to get hands-on experiences and contacts to the racing industry. Some of these universities might have automotive research programs though. That would give you the opportunity for research as an undergrad and do a masters specializing on a motorsports problem.

You could also study automotive engineering to get an education that's more targeted towards your goal. Those programs are probably more interdisciplinary to cover different aspects of the motorsports world. The specific hands-on experiences and internship opportunities are probably baked into the program too.

A few universities even have undergraduate programs or certificates in motorsport engineering. Those are the programs most focussed on the racing industry. You would benefit from interesting guest speakers, practical work with a racing team and make valuable contacts.

I have picked out a few for you that I find interesting:

https://motorsports.charlotte.edu/

https://newsmediarelations.colostate.edu/2004/08/05/innovative-colorado-state-university-motorsport-engineering-program-improving-u-s-racing-industry/

https://catalog.uta.edu/engineering/mechanical/undergraduate/certificatestext

https://www.admissions.purdue.edu/majors/a-to-z/motorsports-engineering.php

https://daytonabeach.erau.edu/about/labs/motorsports-engineering

You'll have to check out these programs to see what they offer. You can also contact departments that you would consider directly and ask specific questions.

Good luck!

KP
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Dan’s Answer

Gustavo,

I agree with your desire to get a degree in mechanical engineering (ME). Not only does it support your passion, it is also a great career.

I am currently mentoring engineering teams working on their senior projects at a local university. This semester, a team is designing a CVT transmission and last semester, a team designed and built a tubular car frame for a small endurance competition vehicle. These teams then have the option to complete (with a finished car) against other teams. I suggest you research universities that offer mechanical engineering degrees that offer this type of experience. You can Google search for "SAE Baja competition" or "Formula SAE competition".

And finally, continue to follow your passion. An engineering career combined with your racing passion is most likely to be both fun and financially rewarding!
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