Kirst Allan-from a MSc in MOTORSPORT ...

at CRANFIELD to an ENGINEER at WILLIAMS F1

“Taking the MSc in Motorsport Engineering and Management at Cranfield University has changed my life.” Says Williams F1’s Composites R & D Project Engineer, Kirsty Allan.  “I have always loved motorsports and had dreamed of working in the industry for many years but what made the difference, and what gave me the opportunity to make my dreams become a reality and become an engineer at Williams F1, was Cranfield. 

“There are many different sorts of engineering degrees on the market but what makes this one different is the combination of practical experience, a qualification which has been specifically tailored for the Formula One industry, and high quality mentoring which I received from both Cranfield and Williams F1.  It also gives you the chance to mingle with people who are already working within the industry.”

Kirsty studied the MSc Motorsport Engineering and Management.  One of the areas of the course which was of particular interest to Kirsty was the Composite Materials module.  She said: “The Cranfield course was a mixture of both practical and academic studies and during it we built a wing for a sports car.  In my job as a Composites R&D Project Engineer at Williams F1, I am a link between the Composites Design department and the Composites R&D group.  I manage a number of R&D projects and get involved in all aspects of these projects from design to practical manufacturing work and final testing.  Once the projects ends, I write up reports and present the results and conclusions. 

“I am starting to get involved with the design of car parts as well as carrying out my own R&D projects and test programmes.  This is giving me invaluable experience and gaining lots of knowledge that will stand me in good stead for eventually becoming a Composite Design Engineer at Williams F1 – which is my dream.”

Alex Burns, Chief Operating Officer at Williams F1, commented: “The motorsport engineering and management course offered by Cranfield is unique in the UK and provides students with a solid background in a discipline which is of great importance to our industry. It offers the perfect springboard for future careers within motorsport and certainly acts as a strong credential if an applicant is a graduate.  We only accept the best engineers at Williams F1 and that is how we would describe Kirsty. She has been a valuable member of our team since she joined us and we look forward to her continued progression and contribution to the team.”


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