Silverstone Park Women’s Innovation Network event helps inspire future STEM & Motorsport talent

Our new image gallery showcases the latest Women’s Innovation Network (WIN) event – part of the wider Silverstone Park ‘Futures’ programme designed to connect industry, education and community partners and inspire the next generation into STEM and motorsport careers.

WIN’s latest event, held inside Silverstone Circuit’s Wing, brought together students, early‑career talent and professionals from across the region, and was supported by a strong group of the network’s volunteers who helped deliver activities and engaged directly with visitors throughout the day.

Attendees included students from the University of Warwick and Oxford Brookes University, who were invited to gain hands‑on exposure to real‑world engineering and motorsport environments.

We were even treated to a wonderful piece of art from Warwick design student Ella Caine which came to life as the event unfolded!

A high‑profile panel discussion formed the centrepiece of the programme, featuring:

• Carrie Russell, Ignition Collective (Silverstone Park occupier)
• Karin Fink, Head of Commercial, F1 Academy
• Caroline McGrory, Chief Legal Officer, Cadillac F1 Team (Silverstone Park occupier)
• Zoe Chilton, Executive Director, Brand Partnerships & Sponsorships / Head of F1, Standard Chartered

Across an insightful and candid conversation, the panel explored:

• Pivotal career moments and unexpected opportunities
• Unseen sacrifices behind senior‑level progression
• Systemic barriers affecting access, retention and advancement
• Responsibility of visibility and leadership in shaping future pathways
• Decision‑making under pressure in high‑stakes environments
• Broader legacy and impact of industry partnerships
• Personal reflections on purpose, influence and long‑term contribution

Reflecting on the event, Sebastian Hayes, Asset Management Director at Silverstone Park, said:

“The strength of WIN lies in bringing together inspirational leaders from across different sectors to share honest experiences, create meaningful connections and support women and other underrepresented groups in industries such as engineering and motorsport.

“Events like this continue to demonstrate the power of collaboration across the Silverstone ecosystem and the wider industry.”

The newly released gallery captures the energy, engagement and ambition of the day – a powerful snapshot of Silverstone Futures in action.