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Name:

Ralph Koyess

Nationality:

Canadian

Course:

MSc Motorsport Engineering and Management 2009-10

Current Employer:

Renault F1

Why did you choose the course you undertook at Cranfield?

My goal was to enter the Formula 1 industry and it was immediately evident that the course had the contacts and the reputation in the industry to help me achieve it.

Describe your experience of postgraduate study at Cranfield?

Being a postgraduate university, Cranfield has a more mature and professional environment than my previous university. Its multicultural environment allowed me to meet students from all over the world. The most enjoyable and useful part of the course is the fact that many of the lecturers come directly from the industry (Red Bull, McLaren, Ferrari...). This is what made the course what it is today. 

This course provided me with the skill to understand every aspect of a race car, from engine to vehicle dynamics to electronics.

Please describe your experience of the group project element of the course? Was it sponsored?

The group project consisted in designing a crash barrier and a Formula Ford nosecone and was sponsored by Silverstone. It was an interesting project that put us in close contact with the circuit. We were provided with 2010 passes which allowed us to attend every racing event at Silverstone. Furthermore, as an introduction to the group project we were given the privilege to drive Silverstone’s single-seaters.

What was your individual thesis project about? Were you supported by an industrial sponsor?

My individual thesis consisted in studying the performance benefits that can be achieved by turbo-compounding a Formula 1 engine for 20103. The project was supported by Cosworth.

Would you recommend the course? Why?

This course has the best reputation in the industry. This was confirmed several times when I personally asked people in F1. If anyone’s goal is to work in F1 or in motorsport in general, this is by far the best course.

Has your course or job led to any particularly interesting activities?

I have been selected as the UK finalist for the Altran Engineering Academy which is an engineering competition organized by Renault F1 and Altran. I have also started the Motorsport Club for the students of the course. Through the club, we volunteered to drive the VIPs in golf buggies during the F1 British Grand Prix and the MotoGP event. This allowed us to make contacts and talk to people in the industry.

Do you have any advice for students considering postgraduate study?

My only advice is not to hesitate to take this course if their goal is to work in motorsport and they have a passion for it.

What are your plans for the future?

I am moving to Oxford to work for Renault F1. I plan to pursue a career in F1. I also plan to keep in touch with the course coordinators to contribute to the success of the course.