MSc student Alessandra Khaing Oo: My experience as a woman in the motorsport industry

Alessandra Khaing Oo will graduate from Cranfield University with an MSc in Advanced Motorsport Mechatronics in September 2024. Here, Alessandra talks about her journey from Myanmar to the UK, how she became interested in a career in motorsport, and her experience at the Red Bull Racing International Women in Engineering Day 2024.

Can you tell us a bit about your life before you came to Cranfield?

My name is Nan Kay Kay Khaing Oo, but I usually go by Alessandra. I am an international student from Myanmar. Before attending Cranfield, I completed my undergraduate degree in computer science with a concentration in cyber security at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida. My life before Cranfield was primarily focused on catching up with assignments, dealing with the challenges of COVID-19, and the stress of job hunting — nothing too exciting.

What sparked your interest in the motorsport industry?

Compared to my course mates, I got into motorsport relatively late. Growing up in Southeast Asia, motorsport was not a prominent part of my life, and I had no one to introduce me to the sport. However, I always knew that I did not want a typical 9-to-5 job, I wanted to explore what the world had to offer. It might sound cliché, but what sparked my interest in cars when I was younger was watching Tokyo Drift. Seeing the cars drift through a cool city, albeit unrealistic in hindsight, excited me.

When it was time to choose a university major, I was unsure of my path. I knew I wanted to pursue something in STEM, but I was not certain what that would be. I really enjoyed my computer science class during my senior year of high school, so my counsellor suggested I major in that field, and I followed the advice. I thoroughly enjoyed all the classes I took for my computer science major, but I still was not sure what I wanted to do after graduation.

As I was about to graduate, COVID-19 hit, and I had to return home. While being stuck at home, I became addicted to social media, TikTok namely, which is where I was first introduced to the world of Formula One. It was a great introductory season, I must say, it was the season where AD21 happened after all. After feeling lost about my career direction post-graduation, I finally found a path I knew I wanted to pursue.

Why did you choose the Advanced Motorsport Mechatronics MSc?

After realising that motorsport was the career I wanted to pursue, I knew I needed further education. I felt that my background in computer science alone was not sufficient for breaking into the motorsport industry. I lacked knowledge about race cars, engines, and fuel systems, my expertise was in coding. Therefore, I decided to pursue an additional degree to better equip myself for this field.

Initially, I applied for the motorsport engineering course. However, during my admission interview at Cranfield, a professor recommended that I choose mechatronics instead, as it aligned better with my background in software engineering and computer science. I am very glad I took their advice because I have learned so much over the past year.

What has your experience at Cranfield been like?

My experience at Cranfield has been nothing short of amazing. I have made many friends and met incredible people from around the world, both from the industry and among the faculty. All my classmates are exceptionally smart, and I feel very privileged to be a part of this cohort. I am deeply thankful for the incredible opportunities I have had, the inspiring people I have met, and the cherished memories I have made.

You recently got invited to the Red Bull Racing International Women in Engineering Day 2024. Can you tell us more about it?

One night, my classmate and close friend Jesica texted me a link to apply for the Red Bull Racing International Women event they were hosting, asking if I had applied yet. The application required our CV, the technical roles we were interested in, and a statement on why we wanted to attend. Without overthinking it, I applied, knowing that hundreds of others would likely do the same. I had little expectation of being invited, but a week later, to everyone’s delight, all of us from Cranfield who applied, Dora, Jes, and myself, got accepted.

The event lasted an entire day. Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed by Hannah Schmitz and other professionals from Red Bull Racing. They took us on a factory tour, revealing “secret” areas such as the assembly area for their F1 cars, the pit stops practice area, the mission control room, and many more.

We then had the chance to network with Red Bull and Rockt employees, asking them about their career paths and seeking advice. During lunch, we had 1-2-1 sessions where industry professionals reviewed our CVs. Red Bull ensured the professionals we spoke to worked in the fields we had chosen during our application. Since I had chosen software and strategy, I had the chance to talk to Ian Brunton, the head of software for the aerodynamic department. He gave me practical advice on how to get my CV noticed by employers and what steps I should take next. This was followed by an on-stage interview with prominent figures from Red Bull Racing, such as Calum Nicholas, the senior PU assembly technician. We were able to ask them questions and gain valuable insights.

My favourite part of the day was the on-stage interview with Hannah Schmitz, who shared her experiences as a woman in motorsport and offered advice on breaking into the industry. She answered all the participants’ questions, providing a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.

Despite the long hours, the day did not feel tiring at all because we were enjoying every moment. Being surrounded by women who are already in the industry and others aspiring to be was incredibly comforting, especially in such a male-dominated field. Seeing them all made me feel like I was not alone.

How are things changing for women in the motorsport industry?

A lot is changing in the motorsport industry. Teams and organisations are implementing initiatives like the F1 Academy to provide platforms for female drivers to showcase their talent and gain visibility. Additionally, many educational and development programmes are encouraging girls to enter the industry, and teams are prioritising diversity and inclusion. While the industry remains male-dominated, it is gradually becoming more inclusive. Progress is being made, and although it is not perfect, it is a significant step in the right direction.

What advice would you give to others aspiring to work in the motorsport industry?

I do not feel qualified enough to give advice yet as I am someone who is still on the path to making it into the industry, but I am happy to share the valuable advice I have received over the past year from industry professionals.

Perseverance is crucial. It might sound difficult, but it is important not to give up in the face of challenges. With determination, you will reach your goals. Everyone is capable of making it to where they want to be. Keep pushing forward, stay resilient, and believe in your abilities.

Who is your professional inspiration?

There are a few people in the motorsport industry whom I deeply admire, especially as someone aspiring to work in strategy in Formula One. Hannah Schmitz, Bernie Collins, and Ruth Buscombe are my role models. All three have achieved success in a male-dominated industry, which is incredibly difficult and something I aspire to accomplish in the future. Their achievements inspire me to pursue my goals with determination and resilience.

What else should we know about you?

That I am just a normal 24-year-old girl striving to reach her goals one step at a time. I am immensely grateful for all the people I have met along the way who have supported and guided me. Finally, I am genuinely happy to be where I am today, embracing every opportunity and challenge that comes my way.