How To Become A Trackside Motorsport Engineer:

To become a motorsport engineer, you typically need to obtain a degree in a relative engineering principle. Such as mechanical, electrical, motorsport or automotive engineering. You can also gain experience and develop your skills through work experience, internships and trainee programs within motorsports or automotive businesses.

It’s also important to have a strong passion for motorsports, knowledge of racing technology and good problem solving skills. The passion for the sport and desire to learn more is an appealing characteristic to potential employers.

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What Types of Trackside Engineers Are There?

There are various types of trackside motorsport engineers, each with their own specialised areas of expertise. Some of the common types of trackside motorsport engineers are listed below:

1. Race Engineer – Responsible for managing the performance of a racing vehicle during a race, working closely with drivers and pit crews to optimise vehicle performance.
2. Data Engineer – Responsible for monitoring and analysing vehicle data during testing and races, using advanced software and telemetry systems to identify areas for improvement in vehicle performance.
3. Strategy Engineer – Responsible for devising race strategies to maximize a team’s performance during an event. This includes analysing data on tire wear, fuel consumption, weather conditions, track position, and the strategies of rival teams.
4. Performance Engineer – Responsible for conducting computer simulations and modeling to predict and optimise vehicle performance.
5. Systems Engineer – Responsible for the performance and reliability of powertrains, and electrical systems.
6. Control Engineer – Responsible for designing and developing electronic control systems for racing vehicles, including engine management systems and vehicle stability control systems.

Each of these types of motorsport engineers requires a specific set of skills and expertise, and they often work collaboratively to achieve success in motorsport racing. More details of the trackside roles can be found here.

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Where Can I Study To Become A Trackside Motorsport Engineer?

There are several universities and colleges around the world that offer degree programs in motorsport engineering, such as:

1. Oxford Brookes University – https://www.brookes.ac.uk/
2. Cranfield University – https://www.cranfield.ac.uk/
3. University of Bolton – https://www.bolton.ac.uk/
4. University of Hertfordshire – https://www.herts.ac.uk/
5. University of Wolverhampton – https://www.wlv.ac.uk/
6. National Motorsport Academy (NMA) – https://motorsport.nda.ac.uk/

These programs typically offer coursework in mechanical engineering, vehicle dynamics, powertrain systems, aerodynamics, and data analysis, as well as hands-on experience with designing and building racing vehicles. More commonly knows as Formula Student. Some programs also offer internships with motorsport teams and manufacturers.

In addition to degree programs, there are also specialised training programs and certifications available through organisations such as the Motorsport Industry Association (MIA) and the National Institute for Motorsport Engineering (NIME). These programs can provide additional training and networking opportunities for aspiring motorsport engineers.

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What Software Tools Do Trackside Motorsport Engineers Use?

If you want to become a trackside motorsport engineer, it’s important to be familiar with a range of software tools used in motorsport for data analysis, simulation, and vehicle performance optimisation. Some of the key softwares are included below:

1. MATLAB/Simulink – Used for data analysis and vehicle modeling. Other coding languages commonly used within motorsport include Python and C++.
2. Pi Toolbox, Atlas, Aim RS and MoTeC i2 – For data analysis.
3. Race Strategy Software – Custom tools to analyse race strategy (used by F1 teams).
4. CAN Software – Like CANAlyzer, Vector and PEAK CAN for control development and diagnostics.
5. Lap Simulation Tools – Tools like OptimumG, Chassis Sim or rFactor for lap-time simulation.

These tools help monitor performance and make critical decisions during a race.

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Trackside Motorsport Engineering Reading Material:

To deepen your understanding of trackside motorsport engineering, here are some valuable reading materials. These books will provide a strong foundation in the technical, strategic, and practical aspects of trackside motorsport engineering.

1. “Race Car Vehicle Dynamics” by William F. Milliken & Douglas L. Milliken – A comprehensive guide to vehicle dynamics, crucial for understanding trackside performance.
2. “The Science of Motorsport” by David Phipps – Focuses on the technical and strategic aspects of motorsport.
3. “Competition Car Data Logging” by Simon McBeath – Covers data analysis, a key component of trackside engineering.
4. “Formula 1: Car by Car” by Peter Higham – Offers insights into Formula 1 engineering and technology over time.

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What Do I Need To Consider Before Pursuing This Career Path?

Before becoming a trackside motorsport engineer, there are some considerations you need to take into account before pursuing this career path. Understanding these aspects can help ensure you’re prepared for the challenges of the role:

1. Physical Demands: Trackside roles involve long hours, travel, and working in high-pressure environments, often requiring quick decision-making. Are you in good mental and physical wellbeing state?
2. Teamwork – You’ll need to collaborate closely with drivers, mechanics, and other engineers. Having excellent social skills is essential.
3. Adaptability – Working trackside requires a deep passion for racing and ongoing learning. In some aspects it requires a large about sacrifice. Be prepared to commit yourself to the cause.

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