Discussing routes into motorsport with McGill University

Before the Canadian Grand Prix got underway in Montréal, Aston Martin Aramco partnered with McGill University for the fourth edition of The Winning Formula Conference.

A collaborative event designed to bring young people closer to the world of Formula One, the conference offered the opportunity for approximately 180 McGill University students to gain industry access and insight into the types of careers available in motorsport.

Hosted in partnership with McGill's Bensadoun School of Retail Management, this year's conference explored the theme 'Adapting to the Fast Lane: Formula One Meets AI in Motorsport'.

The day opened with an intimate fireside conversation between Jak Crawford, Aston Martin Aramco Third Driver, and McGill University's Professor Karl Moore, offering students insight into Jak's journey from karting through to competing in Formula 2 and becoming part of Aston Martin Aramco.

Their conversation explored the realities of life in elite motorsport beyond race day, including simulator work, relentless preparation and the importance of being resilient in order to perform under pressure.

This was followed by a panel discussion titled 'Driving Innovation: AI in Formula One', which featured Aston Martin Aramco colleagues from across the team: Karolina Lipska, HR Business Partner, Ben Birks, Senior Partnership Manager, and Elaine McCulloch, Senior Social Impact Lead.

The panel offered a chance to discuss how technology is transforming the sport and what that means for the next generation of talent, focusing on how AI is increasingly influencing decision-making and operations within Formula One, while reinforcing that people remain central to performance.

"We proactively look at potential barriers that someone might experience and try to remove them – throughout the recruitment and selection process but also once we employ the right candidates," said Karolina.

"Using intentional data-lead hiring practices can actually help us reduce bias and create more equitable pathways for women to enter and progress.

"Aston Martin Aramco, and the sport in general, is on a journey to be inclusive. And this is for everyone, not just women; it applies to all levels of experience."

For students considering their own careers, the panel highlighted the skills needed to succeed: adaptability, communication, leadership, relationship building, problem solving under pressure, curiosity and continuous learning, working across multiple disciplines and AI-supporting operational efficiency and sustainability goals.

"I have a strong belief that talent exists everywhere, but opportunity and access do not," said Elaine.

"I'm passionate about opening doors wider for young people from all backgrounds.

"As a team, we're focused on creating access, confidence and visibility for young people who may not traditionally see themselves in motorsport or STEM careers. The most meaningful initiatives combine inspiration with practical action: skills development, mentoring, industry exposure, and real-world experiences. "

After the panel, the learning experience continued beyond the conference as McGill student organisers and co-event leads Megan Curadeau and Nazeeha Nilamdeen were offered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to go behind the scenes with the team and experience the setup of a Formula One race weekend at the Canadian Grand Prix.

The trackside visit gave them exposure to the operational and event delivery side of Formula One, helping them convert academic learning into real-world experience and demonstrating to them the breadth of opportunities available within the sport.