Graduates On Track

FOR AUTOSPORT INTERNATIONAL

Given the ongoing credit crunch and looming recession, you could be forgiven for thinking that British manufacturing and engineering were in decline. However, behind the stories and tabloid gossip, the good news is that there's a national success story that bucks the trend; the UK motorsport industry. More young graduates than ever before are entering the field, and what better place to find out about the opportunities available than the Careers in Motorsport Area at Autosport International, next January at the NEC, Birmingham?

The motorsport sector accounts for 14% of all UK automotive business, and although the industry's Motorsport Valley is predominantly based along the M40 corridor, firms all over the country are involved. Over 2,500 businesses generate sales of £5.3 billion, with 108,500 people from all aspects of commerce and engineering employed in motorsport-related work.

Former UK university graduates include the following names:

Adrian Newey, Chief Technical Officer, Red Bull F1 - University of SouthamptonMike Gascoyne, Chief Technology Officer, Force India - Cambridge University Adrian Reynard, Founder of Reynard Engineering - Oxford Brookes University (then Oxford Polytechnic)Nick Fry, CEO Honda Racing F1 team - University of WalesSteve Mattin, Volvo and Mercedes designer - Coventry University

The Careers in Motorsport area at Autosport International, Europe's largest motorsport show, brings together everything that the motorsport-minded student needs. A one-stop shop for colleges, employers and advice, Careers in Motorsport caters for all aspects of the sport, such as finance, marketing and logistics, much more than just engineering.

"Graduates are the lifeblood of motorsport, so it's incredibly important that the industry remains proactive towards training and recruitment," said Haymarket Exhibitions Show Director Ian France. "The continued success of courses run by colleges and universities like Myerscough College, Oxford Brookes University and the University of Derby, just three of a number attending Autosport International, offer proof that the UK can produce some of the world's most talented engineers, designers and support staff."

The 2008 Autosport International Show attracted over 84,000 visitors, including 28,000 trade buyers. Over 1,000 media representatives were present throughout the event, covering the show's numerous live displays and 850 exhibitors.

Autosport International will be open to the public on Saturday 10 to Sunday 11 January 2009. Adult tickets start at £29 per day, with children's tickets costing £19, and include a 34-page souvenir brochure. To book, visit autosport-international.com or call 0044 (0) 844 579 3188 .

Paddock passes are available for £35 per adult and £25 for children. In addition to standard admission, visitors will have access to the Driver Signing Area as well as fast-track entry to the Live Action Arena and a great viewing position at the centre of the grandstands.

A Platinum Club pass, at £100, includes all the benefits of the Paddock Pass plus exclusive access to the VIP enclosure at the very top of the Live Action Arena grandstand, complete with champagne and canapes. You will also receive complimentary parking, cloakroom at the NEC plus a goodie bag.


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