Formula Student
Tom Stevens is a Performance Development Engineer on the Graduate Scheme at Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains (HPP). Tom graduated after 4 years studying Automotive with Mechanical Engineering at the University of Bath.
Describe your experience as a Graduate at Mercedes AMG HPP?
During my time here I have been fortunate enough to be involved in the new Mercedes Hypercar Project, working initially as a Mechanical Design Engineer on the Internal Combustion Engine. This rotation was a fantastic introduction to the company, giving me real work from day one as a Design Engineer, allowing me to spend time working with CAD and FEA software. Within the first 6 months I had been involved in the design of several major components, both for the top end and bottom end of the ICE, as well as leading the design of several development items. After this, I joined the Performance team as a Development Engineer. Here I have been working on the calibrations for the fuel system, using multiple data handling packages to improve my script writing and data analysis skills.
What is it like to work at Mercedes AMG HPP?
It is extremely rewarding, whether it’s watching the F1 cars perform on a race weekend or seeing the Hypercar powertrain being unveiled to the public ahead of the 2017 car launch. I was also fortunate enough to experience the 2016 Constructors Championship win last year. No matter where you work at HPP, you are always able to see your contributions making a positive impact.
How has working at Mercedes AMG HPP lived up to your expectations?
Working here has exceeded all of my expectations; it is the ultimate environment to learn in and develop as a professional Engineer. The calibre of the engineering work completed here is second to none and the atmosphere generated encourages everyone to perform to their absolute best. The Engineering Graduate Scheme also includes personal mentoring sessions, to help apply the knowledge I have learned at University. Since joining, I have had the opportunity to work with some of the best engineers in the world and really develop my technical engineering skills.
Why did you take part in Formula Student?
Prior to joining Mercedes AMG HPP, I competed in Formula Student as a member of Team Bath Racing’s 2015 team, TBR15. Formula Student was definitely the best part of my University experience, particularly when our team won the Endurance event at Silverstone in the pouring rain. The project was the perfect way to spend my final 18 months at University and really helped prepare me for the job at HPP in a way that I don’t think any other University project could match.
What advice would you give to this year’s FS Students?
I would recommend this year’s participants to just take a moment to step back and appreciate what the project is about and what it is you’ve achieved as a team. It’s so very easy to get caught up in the competitive nature and stress that is Formula Student, which is completely understandable considering the time, effort and late nights that go into designing and building the car. But the most important part of Formula Student is about enjoying yourself, making memories and forging friendships. If you can find the right balance between wanting to win and having fun, then you’ll have made the most of this fantastic opportunity, which is something you’re unlikely to ever experience again!
Once again, Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains are excited to be partners of this year's Formula Student event.
If you are attending, and would like to find out more about their Graduate or Placement opportunities for 2018, please visit them at Formula Student. Alternatively, to pre-arrange a time please contact Careers@mercedes-amg-hpp.com