Industry News: Laura Mueller becomes F1’s First Female Race Engineer

How the National Motorsport Academy Can Help You Follow Laura’s Path

race engineer Laura Mueller
Laura Mueller - Credit: Formula 1 on X

Formula 1 is no stranger to breaking barriers, but this year is already shaping up to be a historic one. We’ve only just started the season, and already history has been made. No, it’s not Lewis Hamilton’s first outing with Ferrari.

Laura Mueller has been announced as the Race Engineer for Haas F1 Driver Esteban Ocon for the upcoming season. This marks a pivotal moment in the sport’s history, as Laura becomes the first women to step into a Race Engineer role in Formula 1.

Being a race engineer is the ultimate goal for many aspiring motorsport professionals, as it’s arguably one of the most critical roles in motorsport, especially F1. The role combines technical know-how, quick thinking, and the ability to communicate effectively under immense pressure. Laura’s achievement isn’t just about breaking into a male-dominated field—it’s about excelling in one of the most demanding positions in motorsport.

Her journey is an inspiring reminder that opportunities in motorsport engineering are expanding. For students and graduates alike, it’s proof that hard work, dedication, and the right education can lead to incredible career milestones.

What is a Race Engineer?

For those unfamiliar, the race engineer serves as the vital link between the driver and the team. They’re responsible for analysing data, optimising car performance, and guiding drivers throughout the weekend—from practice sessions to the chequered flag. It’s a job that demands precision, technical know-how, and teamwork.

Laura’s position at Haas is a testament to her expertise in areas like vehicle dynamics, aerodynamics, and data analysis—skills that are at the heart of any motorsport engineering curriculum.

Laura Mueller and Esteban Ocon - Credit: Formula 1 on X

It is evident that Laura earnt her promotion on merit. However, it is fantastic to see initiatives like FIA’s “Girls on Track” are paving the way for women in engineering, racing, and technical roles. Whilst there is still work to be done to make motorsport more inclusive, this is certainly a step in the right direction. At the National Motorsport Academy, we’re proud to support this movement by providing accessible, high-quality education for students of all backgrounds. Opportunities should be for everybody.

How NMA can put you on the path to success!

If Laura’s story has you dreaming of a similar career, it’s time to start thinking about how to make it happen. At the National Motorsport Academy, our online degrees in Motorsport Engineering and Business of Motorsport provide the perfect foundation for aspiring engineers.

Here’s how our courses can set you up for success:

  • Industry-Relevant Skills: From CAD design and aerodynamics, to sponsorship and management, our curriculum across all our courses cover the key technical areas needed to excel in motorsport.
  • Hands-On Experience: Students have the chance to work with real teams, like Team NMA, where they can apply classroom knowledge to live racing environments.
  • Flexible Learning: Our online format lets students study around work or other commitments, making it easier to balance education with real-world experience.

Whether you want to design cars, analyse race data, or even become a race engineer, our programs are tailored to help you build the skills that teams like Haas are looking for. 

If you’d like to find out more about how the NMA can guarantee a career in motorsport, check out our blog – ‘How the National Motorsport Academy Can Boost Your Motorsport Career’.

NMA Deputy Director Wayne Gater providing a safety briefing ahead of a #TeamNMA Race Weekend

Laura Mueller’s story is a reminder that there’s no single path to success in motorsport. Her rise to the top wasn’t just about technical skill—it was about passion, persistence, and finding the right opportunities.

For students at the National Motorsport Academy, this is a great example of where your engineering or business degree can take you. With the right mix of education and determination, there’s no reason why you can’t aim for a role in F1 or any other elite motorsport series.

As Laura gears up for her first season with Haas and Esteban Ocon, she’s not just making history—she’s paving the way for the next generation of engineers to follow in her footsteps.

So, what’s stopping you? Your journey into the world of motorsport could start today. Check out our courses and see where they could take you.

Online BSc (Hons) Motorsport Engineering

Our full 3-year Bachelor’s Degree
course – Flexible Study.
Applications from non-NMA students and mature students welcome.

Online MSc Advanced Motorsport Engineering

For a career in Motorsport Management or as a Senior Motorsport Specialist. Applications from non-NMA and mature students welcome.

Online MA Business of Motorsport

Preparing you for a wide array of leadership and strategic roles across different sectors. Applications from non-NMA and mature students welcome.

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