Design F1 Cars and Engineer Your Future

What do math, science, teamwork and high-speed racing have in common? Everything—especially when it comes to a career in engineering. If you’ve never considered engineering before, now’s the time to get in gear.

Through initiatives like the global F1 in Schools STEM Challenge, students around the world—including thousands across Australia—are discovering that engineering is anything but boring. It’s creative, hands-on, and filled with future-ready opportunities.

What Is F1 in Schools?

F1 in Schools is an international competition where high school students (Years 7–12) design, test, and build miniature Formula 1 cars using industry-grade software and manufacturing tools. More than just racing, the challenge encourages skills in:

• Engineering design and manufacturing
• 3D modelling and aerodynamics
• Project management and teamwork
• Branding, marketing, and communication

It’s a unique way to bring STEM subjects to life—and a powerful gateway into engineering pathways and related industries.

Engineering: More Than Just Equations

Today’s engineers are problem-solvers, innovators, and visionaries. Whether it’s designing sustainable buildings, developing biomedical devices, improving transportation systems, or working on the next generation of racing cars, engineers use science and creativity to solve real-world problems.

In Australia, there are currently over 120,000 engineers working across various sectors—but demand continues to outpace supply. According to Jobs and Skills Australia, engineering remains one of the highest-priority occupations nationally, with shortages across civil, structural, mechanical, and electrical specialisations.

Why Choose Engineering in 2025?

1. Strong Job Demand

With major infrastructure projects, renewable energy investments, and digital transformation across industries, Australia is facing an ongoing engineering skills shortage. This creates excellent job security and career progression for qualified engineers.

2. High Earning Potential

Engineers enjoy competitive salaries. According to the latest ABS data and industry benchmarks:

• Graduate engineers: $65,000–$75,000
• Mid-career engineers: $90,000–$120,000
• Senior/specialist engineers: $130,000+

Engineers working in high-demand fields such as mining, energy, or data systems may earn well above these averages.

3. Career Versatility

Engineering skills are highly transferable. With a degree in engineering, it’s possible to transition into roles in:

• Project management
• IT and software development
• Renewable energy and sustainability
• Consulting or entrepreneurship
• Telecommunications and defence

It’s also a launching pad for future careers in executive leadership, innovation, and even non-technical fields like finance or policy.

4. Emerging Specialisations

New technology is driving demand for engineering in areas like:

• Mechatronics – robotics, AI and automation
• Environmental engineering – sustainability and climate resilience
• Biomedical engineering – medical devices and health tech
• Systems engineering – used in defence, aerospace and smart infrastructure

Start Your Journey Into Engineering

If you’re excited by the idea of creating, building, and solving complex problems, engineering might just be your calling. To get there, you can begin by enrolling in an engineering qualification that suits your interests and goals.

Popular Study Options:

• Bachelor of Engineering (various specialisations)
• Certificate IV in Engineering
• Diploma of Engineering – Technical

Many of these courses are available online or via hybrid delivery, allowing flexibility for school leavers and working professionals alike.

Want to Inspire the Next Generation?

Educators and parents can also help bridge the gap between science in the classroom and engineering in the real world. Programs like F1 in Schools make STEM subjects more relatable and provide a powerful foundation for students to explore future careers in design, manufacturing, and engineering leadership.