Formula Student
Having been involved in motorsports since the 70s in the US, Suzanne had been the Chief Scrutineer at the Formula One US Grand Prix since 1985 and was the first woman to be given an FIA International Chief Scrutineer License. She served for decades as the Chief Scrutineer at Detroit, Phoenix, Indianapolis, Circuit of the Americas, Sebring and other US venues, and was recognised for her work by COTA and the FIA at the 2021 US Formula One Grand Prix, shortly before she retired.
Outside of professional motorsports, Suzanne was an ardent supporter of the FSAE, Formula Student and Formula Hybrid competitions, having officiated at 80 competitions around the world.
Together with her husband Michael, Suzanne was a familiar face around the Silverstone paddock at the Formula Student UK competition, both as part of the scrutineering team and during the Dynamic events at Copse Corner.
She was always happy to help both student teams and the army of volunteers, including some who continue to work on the organising committee to this day. Those who worked with her at Formula Student described her as a role model for the competition; knowledgeable, supportive, and keen to develop young engineering and motorsport talent, with several alumni going on to work with her in WEC and Formula 1 scrutineering crews after competing.
Suzanne was co-author of the book Learn & Compete A Primer for Formula SAE, Formula Student and Formula Hybrid Teams, in which she shared her experience and recommendations for student teams.
"It's no understatement to say that Formula Student couldn't have become what it is today without the invaluable contribution Suzanne made over her many years officiating at our competitions," said Dan Jones, Chief Judge for Formula Student in the UK. "She had a wonderful manner with the students and volunteers alike and truly was one of the FS family, she will be sorely missed both as a colleague and a friend."
On behalf of the Formula Student organising committee and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, we thank Suzanne for her contributions to Formula Student and pass on our condolences to her family.
Photo credit: Michael Royce, used with permission.