Kirsty Allan, Williams F1
Name:
Kirsty Allan
Course:
MSc Motorsport Engineering and Management, graduated 2008.
Job role:
I am effectively a link between the Composites Design Department and the Composites R&D Group within Williams F1. I am responsible for managing a number of R&D projects, getting involved in all aspects of these projects, from design to practical manufacturing work and through to the final tests. Once the projects come to an end, I have to write up reports and present any results and conclusions at our fortnightly Composites R&D meetings.
I have always been interested in the R&D aspect of engineering as well as the design side. Being able to combine both elements in my first job is brilliant. I've been getting more involved with the design of car parts as well as carrying out my R&D projects and test programmes. I am obtaining invaluable experience and lots of knowledge that will stand me in good stead as I progress towards becoming a Composite Design Engineer.
How did I get to where I am now:
I’ve been a fan of Formula One for years and have always been fascinated with the technology and mentality of the sport. Upon discovering the Cranfield University Motorsport MSc and then undertaking work experience with Legends Racing during the summer of 2006, I realised that I wanted to apply my engineering knowledge and skills to this area. I registered for the Masters at Cranfield and worked my way through the modules, completing the assignments and exams. The MSc group project I worked on at Cranfield was initiated by the FIA and Ford. The project involved designing and manufacturing a crash nose box for single-seat racing cars for use in the British Formula Ford Championship.
Cranfield University then helped me gain my role at Williams F1 by providing me with invaluable opportunities to network and make contacts within the motorsport industry. As well as offering modules which would expand my academic knowledge, I was given the chance to apply for the Williams F1 bursary which I was successful in securing. I also secured the Grand Prix Mechanics' Charitable Trust Fund which helped support me through the course. By carrying out my thesis project during a four month placement at Williams F1, I was able to demonstrate my skills and competencies on a daily basis – it was like a very long interview. The skills and knowledge I then gained and developed throughout the placement enabled me to demonstrate that I would work well at Williams as a full-time employee. These included my communication and report writing skills, team working, coping well under pressure, time and project management and, of course, my design and CAD skills. I was thrilled when I was appointed to my post at the end of the Cranfield course.
Without Cranfield University, the support from the Grand Prix Mechanics' Charitable Trust and Williams F1 I would not have had the opportunities to achieve the career in motorsport I always wanted, working in F1 for a leading British team.
