The University of Warwick has been named Motorsport Valley’s first STEM Racing Centre of Excellence in a new partnership with STEM Racing, Maaden and Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team.
Opening in the upcoming academic year, the Centre of Excellence will serve as an open-access engineering hub, providing neighboring schools and students with opportunities to develop practical skills in computer-aided design, CNC machining and aerodynamic testing using industry-standard equipment. Supported by the University of Warwick’s engineering expertise, students will receive hands-on guidance and mentoring, building the confidence and skills needed for future careers in engineering.
The South East Midlands is home to what’s commonly called Motorsport Valley, where seven of Formula 1’s current 11 teams are based. With growing demand for engineering and technical skills in the region, the center will support the future talent pipeline by encouraging more young people into motorsport, engineering and advanced manufacturing careers.
Powered by Maaden, the center will form part of the company’s multi-year youth development program with Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team. Through STEM Racing, students will gain hands-on engineering experience and mentorship.
Anabelle Denford, partnerships director at STEM Racing, commented, “Twenty-six years ago, we founded STEM Racing to make engineering exciting, accessible and rooted in real-world experience by challenging young people to design, manufacture and race their own miniature F1 car.
“Today, we’re taking that vision even further, bringing together Maaden, Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team and the University of Warwick to connect young people with world-class industry, elite motorsport and leading engineering education.
“The Centre of Excellence will give students the facilities, expertise and hands-on experience to build confidence, develop practical engineering skills and explore where those skills could take them. We’re giving young people the confidence to believe they belong in engineering and the opportunity to take that first step.”
Stuart Croft, vice chancellor and president at the University of Warwick, said, “This ambitious partnership showcases the University of Warwick’s commitment to inspiring the next generation of engineers and technicians.
“Through this Centre of Excellence, we are strengthening pathways into STEM careers and equipping young people with the skills, confidence and hands-on experience they need to shape the future of engineering.
“The University has a rich history of engineering expertise, which we are proud to pass onto the next generation.”
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