Florida Polytechnic University students and leadership attended the recent Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring, gaining insights into career pathways and industry partnerships within the motorsports field.
Florida Polytechnic University students, faculty, and staff participated in an in-depth exploration of STEM applications in the motorsports field at the recent Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring. The opportunity, made possible by Mark Wilson, president and CEO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce, and John Doonan, president of the International Motor Sports Association (IMSA), provided valuable insights into career pathways and industry partnerships.
“The global sportscar racing industry, led by IMSA, is the most innovative and technologically advanced racing series on the planet and is full of incredible career opportunities for talented students like those I met at Florida Poly, and IMSA’s engagement with the University showcases that potential firsthand,” said Wilson, the Florida Chamber’s president. “Florida Poly’s visionary leaders and students bring the kind of talent and innovation that align perfectly with the future of motorsports, where the race cars in IMSA are like computers on wheels. This collaboration opens the door for exciting partnerships and real-world career pathways in this dynamic industry.”
The visit included a comprehensive behind-the-scenes tour of the IMSA Cadillac paddock, offering students an inside look at the intricate engineering and teamwork required in professional motorsports. Team technicians explained the rigorous preparations necessary before, during, and after a race to maintain peak vehicle performance, covering everything from data analysis to fine-tuning mechanical components.
By interacting with engineers from renowned motorsports-related companies like Michelin and Bosch, students learned about advanced scanning systems that assess aerodynamics and safety post-race, real-time data monitoring tracking engine health and fuel efficiency, and the complexities of tire engineering – where temperature and humidity shifts demand constant strategy adjustments for optimal performance.
The event underscored Florida Poly’s commitment to integrating industry collaboration into its STEM curriculum. By engaging with IMSA and its partners, the University aims to strengthen ties with the motorsports industry, explore research opportunities, and enhance student pathways into high-tech careers in engineering, data science, and automotive innovation.
“This experience gave our students a direct look at how their skills and education can translate into careers in motorsports and high-performance engineering,” said Dr. Devin Stephenson, Florida Poly’s president. “Opportunities like this not only broaden their perspectives but also help establish valuable industry connections that can shape their future.”
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Lydia Guzmán
Director of Communications
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