9-2-2024
February 9th, 2024: BWT Alpine F1 Team have collaborated with Microsoft to establish the Race into STEM Programme, a global initiative aimed at inspiring young women to pursue their passions and create a pathway for a future career in motorsport and STEM.
Off the back of the successful joint initiative at the Mexico City Grand Prix last season with the Technolochicas Foundation, Microsoft and BWT Alpine F1 Team are extending the Race into STEM Programme to include activations with local schools at multiple race events across the 2024 Formula 1 season.
The newly-expanded programme was announced during an event with Girls on Track UK at London Design & Engineering University Technical College (UTC) on February 8th, where students participated in various STEM activities together with female members of BWT Alpine F1 Team.
As well as hosting STEM workshops and guest lectures from key figures working at BWT Alpine F1 Team, the Race into STEM Programme will feature a new digital platform created by Microsoft, with a curriculum by Girls on Track UK.
The digital platform provides youth with free online resources and learning tools that are focused on further developing knowledge and interest in STEM subjects with a connection to motorsport.
The online platform will also host interactive video content, including interviews from BWT Alpine F1 Team, giving young women advice and guidance on different career paths and how to develop the skills needed to work in Formula 1.
David Gendry, VP, Chief Commercial Officer BWT Alpine F1 Team & VP Communications Alpine Brand, said: “Following the success of the pilot STEM activation in Mexico City last year, it’s great to see the programme being expanded globally together with Microsoft. The objectives of Race into STEM go hand-in-hand with that of our Rac(H)er Programme, with a mission to inspire more young women to pursue their dreams of working in motorsport. We look forward to seeing the positive impact the Race into STEM Programme has as it's rolled out at select races across the 2024 season.”
Monica Robbins, Director of Sports Partnerships at Microsoft, said: “We want to show girls that they can be anything they want to be, whether it's a driver, engineer, mechanic, designer, strategist or leader. Race into STEM will give girls a glimpse into the fascinating and fast-paced world of F1, where STEM skills are essential for success. We hope that by sparking their curiosity and confidence, we can inspire them to pursue their dreams and ambitions in STEM fields.”