Former Mercedes Formula 1 engineer Hannah Bowen is preparing to launch a new educational book designed to introduce children to the world of F1 engineering. Entitled I Can Be a Race Car Engineer, the book is aimed at children aged eight to 12 and is expected to arrive in time for Christmas. Its goal is to show young motorsport enthusiasts that a career in Formula 1 does not necessarily mean becoming a racing driver.
For many children, the dream of Formula 1 begins at an early age, perhaps behind the wheel of a kart, wearing a helmet that still feels too big and with eyes full of excitement. The luckiest start racing at just six or seven years old, quickly discovering that speed involves much more than simply pressing the accelerator. Racing lines, grip, tyre pressures, car set-up and countless technical details gradually become part of their knowledge with every race. But what happens when the extremely difficult dream of becoming a professional driver starts to fade, even though their passion for racing remains as strong as ever?
Former Mercedes F1 engineer Hannah Bowen offers children another path into motorsport
The reality is that very few young karting drivers will ever reach Formula 1. However, that does not mean they have to abandon their ambition of becoming part of the sport. There are other, more accessible routes through education and technical training that can lead directly into the design departments, workshops and garages of the world’s leading racing teams.
It is precisely these curious young motorsport enthusiasts that Hannah Bowen hopes to reach with I Can Be a Race Car Engineer, a new educational book designed to introduce children to the engineering side of racing.
Bowen knows from personal experience what it means to turn a passion for cars into a professional career. The former Mercedes F1 engineer has worked in single-seater engineering, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and technical support during race weekends. Having gained experience in these demanding areas of motorsport, she has decided to use her knowledge to inspire the next generation.
Her initiative also highlights the importance of the people working behind the scenes in Formula 1. While the drivers attract most of the attention, the engineers responsible for designing, developing and operating the cars play an equally essential role in the sport.
How the new Formula 1 book introduces children to STEM education
The project builds on more than ten years of educational outreach in schools, with the aim of bringing younger audiences closer to STEM subjects: science, technology, engineering and mathematics. By using the excitement of Formula 1 as its starting point, the book seeks to make these disciplines more approachable and engaging for children who might otherwise never consider a career in engineering.
Rather than relying entirely on theoretical explanations, I Can Be a Race Car Engineer includes experiments, design challenges and practical activities. Young readers will be able to explore how a racing car works, learn some of the basic principles of aerodynamics, carry out calculations and even design their own race car.
The activities are intended to help children understand that the technical knowledge used in Formula 1 can be explored through everyday learning experiences. From understanding airflow to tackling simple engineering problems, the book connects the excitement of motorsport with subjects taught in schools.
Encouraging more girls to consider careers in Formula 1 engineering
Another important aspect of Hannah Bowen’s project is its emphasis on encouraging girls to pursue careers in science and engineering. According to the project’s official website, particular attention is being given to inspiring young girls to explore professional opportunities in STEM fields, where women remain underrepresented.
The objective is to demonstrate that engineering is not an exclusive profession reserved for a particular group of people. Through practical experiences and an accessible introduction to motorsport technology, the book aims to encourage children to discover interests and abilities that could eventually lead them into technical careers.
The publication will also be accompanied by videos and activities that children can complete at home using easily available materials. Those interested in the project can register through its official website to receive updates about the book’s release.
A Formula 1 dream that does not require becoming a driver
Behind the 22 drivers lining up on the Formula 1 starting grid are thousands of engineers, mechanics and specialist technicians whose work makes racing possible. For every young enthusiast dreaming of sitting in the cockpit, there is also the possibility of one day helping to design, build or prepare the car itself.
That is the message at the heart of Hannah Bowen’s initiative. Discovering that a future in Formula 1 could involve engineering rather than driving may prove just as exciting for a child who loves motorsport. And unlike the demanding financial path towards a professional racing career, this alternative does not necessarily require sponsors willing to invest millions. Above all, it requires curiosity, education, dedication and a genuine passion for the sport.
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