How to become a data engineer

To become a motorsport data engineer, you will need a combination of education, experience, and skills. Here are the steps you can take to pursue a career in this field:

#1 Education:

Most data engineering positions require a degree in motorsport engineering, computer science, mathematics. You may also consider a postgraduate degree or certification in data analysis, machine learning, or statistics to gain advanced skills in data analysis and visualisation. Some specific data/performance engineering courses are available if deemed necessary.

#2 Gaining Experience:

You will need to gain experience working with data in a motorsport or automotive industry setting. Look for internships or entry-level positions with racing teams, automotive companies, or motorsport data analysis firms to gain hands-on experience working with real race data. Prior to landing your first professions job you can practice with demo data that comes with software like Circuit Tools and Motec I2.

#3 Developing Your Skills:

Motorsport data engineers need to have strong technical skills in data analysis, data management, and programming. You should have experience working with statistical analysis software, such as MATLAB or Python, and should be familiar with databases and data management tools. Being an advance user of Microsoft Excel is also very desirable for employers. A good electrical understanding and fault diagnosis is also beneficial as this allows you to understand if certain sensors are not working as expected. Most sensors operate with a voltage range and are known to fail from time to time. Part of the job of the data engineer may also be to zero sensors prior to going out on track to make sure that the data that is being collected id useable. An example of this would be zeroing push rod load cells. There are various data monitoring softwares out there that are widely used by motorsport professionals, these include: (but are not limited too)

• Motec I2
• Circuit Tools (Part of the VBOX package)
• Aim (Race studio 2 & 3)
• Cosworth PI
• Magneti Marelli WINTAX
• Mclaren Atlas (Live telemetry)

#4 Building Your Portfolio

Build A portfolio of work that demonstrates your skills and experience can help you stand out when applying for motorsport data engineering positions. Build projects that showcase your ability to collect, filter, analyse, and visualise data from motorsport tests and events. The motorsport industry is constantly evolving, and new technologies and data analysis techniques are continually emerging. Stay up to date with the latest trends and developments by attending training courses, workshops, and seminars.

In summary, becoming a motorsport data engineer requires a combination of education, experience, skills, networking, and a passion for motorsport. Pursuing a career in this field requires dedication, hard work, and a commitment to ongoing learning and development. With the right skills and experience, you can build a rewarding career as a motorsport data engineer. For more information and on a specific software please drop me an email.

Be sure to check out some of the previous blogs here.

Furthermore, blog posts are also published on the Pitlane Development Linkedin account. For more information on our latest deals, offers and appearances please subscribe to the newsletter on the website.

Please follow and like us: