Williams’ STEM experience is inspiring the F1 engineers of tomorrow

As part of Williams’ STEM Experience, which can usually only be experienced exclusively at the team’s headquarters in Grove, Oxfordshire, visitors to FOS Future Lab had the chance to interact with a rare wind tunnel model, real F1 gear take part in interactive challenges, igniting passions for science and engineering.

With exposed components revealing some of the secrets of F1 aerodynamics — think computational fluid dynamics (CFD), drag reduction, and downforce optimisation — it was a unique chance to see what helps F1 cars reach speeds exceeding 200mph and learn how carbon fibre, materials science, and precision engineering create these high-tech marvels.

Authentic race gear, including a suit, helmets, high-performance tyres and a side pod were also on show, but it wasn’t just about looking. The Crumple Zone Challenge allowed actual kids and big kids alike to design, build and test crumple zones, learning how engineering ensures driver safety in high-speed F1 crashes, while the Batak Reaction Station tested your reflexes in a high-energy challenge mimicking an F1 driver’s split-second decision-making.

Targeting 10,000 UK schoolchildren in 2025, Williams’ STEM Experience is a free initiative currently unique in Formula 1. From exploring heritage race cars driven by Nigel Mansell to racing on F1 simulators, it’s a chance for students to take their first steps towards an F1 engineering career.

The programme’s impact is clear: 88 per cent of participants show increased interest in STEM careers, but Williams’ commitment to nurturing talent extends beyond its STEM programme. Its Driver Academy supports racers as young as ten, while its early careers programme has helped shape its 1,000-strong workforce.

“Developing bright young minds has always been part of our DNA at Atlassian Williams Racing, and it’s central to our ambition of winning World Championships again,” said Team Principal James Vowles. “Formula 1 can sometimes feel like an impossible dream, but we want all children to see firsthand where a career in STEM can lead. By showing what’s possible, we hope to inspire them to choose science, technology, engineering, and maths as part of their education."

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Goodwood photography by Toby Whales.