F1 Aerodynamicist Lecture Notes: How to Get a Job in F1 - Part 3

Overview

• Focus on student placements offered by F1 teams for graduates and undergraduates.
• Discuss the timeline, procedure, and career value of these placements.
• Importance of software skills and Formula Student.
• Insights into the HR round and frequently asked questions.
• Reality of student placements in F1.

Timeline and Procedure for Student Placements

• Application Timeline:

  • Applications typically start: September - October.
  • Results usually by: Start - End of December.
  • Key Point: Apply one year in advance (e.g., for 2023 intake, apply in September 2022).

• Application Procedure:

  1. Submit Cover Letter and CV
     • Importance of a strong application (check related videos).
  2. Written Round:
     • Fundamental questions to assess your knowledge.
  3. Technical Assessment:
     • Group activities and technical interviews.
  4. HR Interview:
     • Assess technical capabilities and personality fit with company values.

Value of Student Placement

• Treated like a full-time employee rather than just a student.
• Helps to understand the demands and skills required in F1.

Software Skills Required

• Design Tools:

  • CATIA and NX for surfacing.
  • Emphasis on understanding parametric surfacing philosophy.

• Analysis Tools:

  • Industry leaders: Star CCM, ANSYS, and OpenFOAM.
  • Skills in meshing, solving CFD, and structural problems.

• Post-Processing Tools:

  • MATLAB, Python, and custom tools used by teams.

Finding Out What Software Teams Use

1. Job Descriptions: Indicate platforms used.
2. Profiles of Previous Employees: Insights into tools and projects.
3. Sponsorships: Teams often use sponsors' software and platforms.

Importance of Formula Student

• Opportunity to demonstrate passion for F1 outside the curriculum.
• Projects in Formula Student align with what you’ll encounter in placements.
• Experience in teamwork and culture integration.
• Valuable learning in unexpected areas (e.g., data analysis, test plans).

HR Round Insights

• Purpose: Understand candidate's personality and fit for the company.
• Common Questions:
  • Why Formula One?
  • Why aerodynamics/electronics/vehicle dynamics?
  • Examples of process improvements.
  • Experience with disagreements and resolutions.
  • Awareness of personal strengths and weaknesses.
  • Biggest life challenges faced.
  • Preparation for the interview itself.

FAQ Highlights

• Visa Sponsorship:

  • Some teams sponsor visas; check job descriptions.
  • Larger teams may have fewer restrictions compared to smaller ones.

• Travel Opportunities:

  • Typically less for larger teams; small teams may offer more track experience.

Reality of Student Placement

• Expectations vs. Reality:
  • Top teams may have a celebratory environment; smaller teams face challenges.
  • Reality involves frustration and hard work, not just glamour seen on TV.
  • Engineers face high-pressure situations; failure is part of the learning process.

Conclusion

• Emphasis on understanding the competitive landscape of F1 placements.
• Recommendations to personalize applications and interview responses.
• Encouragement for students to pursue Formula Student opportunities.

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