The University of Warwick has been named Motorsport Valley's first STEM Racing Centre of Excellence in a new partnership with STEM RacingLink opens in a new window, Maaden and Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team™, announced at the Aston Martin Technology Campus (AMRTC) on 1 July.
Opening in the upcoming academic year, the Centre of Excellence will serve as an open-access engineering hub, providing neighbouring schools and students with opportunities to develop practical skills in computer-aided design (CAD), CNC machining and aerodynamic testing using industry-standard equipment.
Supported by engineering expertise - from Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG) and the School of Engineering at the University of Warwick - students will receive hands-on guidance and mentoring, building the confidence and skills needed for future careers in engineering.
As demand for engineering and technical skills continues to grow across the region, the Centre will help strengthen the future talent pipeline by inspiring more young people to pursue careers in motorsport, engineering and advanced manufacturing.
The launch event was attended by leaders from education, industry and motorsport, including Maaden CEO Bob Wilt, Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team™ Global Ambassador Pedro de la Rosa, STEM Racing founder Andrew Denford and representatives from WMG, University of Warwick.
Professor Kerry KirwanLink opens in a new window, Dean of WMG at the University of Warwick, said: "We are delighted to be working with colleagues in the School of Engineering to bring this project to life.
"The Centre of Excellence offers young people a chance to engage directly with engineering and innovation. Strong partnerships between industry and education helps to show students how their learning translates into meaningful careers.
"It helps them build technical expertise alongside the teamwork, communication and problem‑solving skills that employers really value."
Stuart Croft, Vice Chancellor and President, 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."
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 Formula One car.
"Today, we're taking that vision even further. By bringing together Maaden, Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team™ and the University of Warwick, we're combining world-class industry, elite motorsport and leading engineering education to give young people opportunities they wouldn't normally have access to.
"The Centre of Excellence will give students the facilities, expertise and hands-on experiences to build confidence, develop practical skills and discover where engineering can take them. Together, we're helping the next generation see what's possible and equipping them to be part of the future of engineering."
