Precision Prevails: David Crespo Triumphs in Rigorous Selection for Autosport Williams Engineer of the Future Award

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The F1 race strategy briefing that won an Award but never existed

“A meticulous selection process,” affirms Dave Robson, Head of Vehicle Performance for the Williams Formula 1 team, describing the journey to determine the recipient of the Autosport Williams Engineer of the Future Award. The prestigious competition underwent significant enhancements in 2023 after its revival post-pandemic in the previous year.

Michael Preston, the 2022 award winner, transitioned into the role of a judge for the 2023 edition, participating in narrowing down the initial pool of over 200 candidates. Notably, this year marked a shift as the competition was open to all current engineering degree students in the UK, expanding the talent pool.

The Williams team meticulously reviewed applications, reducing the contenders to 60, and subsequently, 20 candidates participated in an assessment day, collaborating with Williams’s Esports team. From this stage, the top 10 engineers advanced to the final selection for an extensive eight-month process.

David Crespo
David Crespo (Credits: Autosport)

The journey commenced with virtual work in April and May, contributing to Williams Esports activities alongside academic commitments. The highlight was their victory in the 2023 iRacing Nurburgring 24 Hours. After this phase, the field narrowed to five candidates, who returned to Williams’s Grove headquarters for assessment days in early September, focusing on F1 race strategy and driver-in-the-loop (DIL) simulator work.

Robson noted the development of a camaraderie among candidates, adding a friendly rivalry to the intense process. Ultimately, only two finalists emerged: David Crespo and Riccardo Calzetta, both pursuing engineering degrees at esteemed universities.

The finalists faced two remaining challenges, including working with the Rodin Carlin squad during a GB3 single-seater series race weekend and delivering presentations on hypothetical motorsport-related engineering problems in mid-November. Crespo presented a new Formula E race strategy model, while Calzetta explored wet-weather wheel guards for F1 cars.

Judges, including Robson and Preston, evaluated presentations alongside experts from Williams and Autosport. Three weeks later, David Crespo was declared the winner at the 2023 Autosport Awards.

Crespo’s success hinged on his comprehensive efforts in both the F1 race simulation task and the final presentation. His adept handling of a virtual race strategy for Suzuka, considering tire degradation, and presenting with precision demonstrated his prowess. Crespo’s thoroughness and innovative approach to motorsport problems secured his victory.

Looking ahead to 2024, Crespo is engaged with the ERT Formula E squad and will participate in an F1 test day with Williams. Reflecting on his win, Crespo expressed satisfaction and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Dave Robson commended the overall process as an opportunity to observe young engineers in action and assess their ability to handle stress. In close competition with Calzetta, Crespo’s meticulousness and skill in executing tasks set him apart.

The article also touches upon the challenge of limited track time for junior engineers and the evolving landscape of opportunities in Formula 1. Robson emphasizes the importance of seeking track experience in other formulas and suggests a need for the sport to rethink strategies for nurturing the next generation of engineers amid changing dynamics in track operations.

Kai Soriano

By Kai Soriano

Kai Soriano, hailing from the picturesque archipelago of the Philippines, is not just your average writer. With a flair for capturing the essence of the NFL through words, Kai stands out as a leading NFL Content Writer. Blending his passion for sports with his impeccable writing skills, he delivers content that is both engaging and insightful. Dive into his pieces, and experience the game as if you're right there on the field! 🏈

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