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How to study Race Engineering in Italy: 2-week program for teenagers

written by
Natasha Machado
15/9/2025
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5 min
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Parma, in the heart of the Emilia-Romagna region, is home to one of the most unique programs for teenagers passionate about motoring. The Dallara Academy offers a two-week experience that immerses students aged 15 to 18 in the universe of Race Engineering.

The program takes place at the headquarters of one of the world's most respected motorsport companies. Dallara produces cars for IndyCar, Formula 2 and Formula 3, in addition to developing technologies for cutting-edge teams.

Why choose Italy to study motorsport

Italy is the birthplace of legends such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati. The country breathes motorsport and offers unique access to the history and technology of the sector. Parma is strategically located near Modena, where the Ferrari and Maserati factories are located.

Different from others career programs for young people, this one focuses specifically on Race Engineering. Participants work directly with Dallara engineers on real projects.

Advantages of the location:

  • Proximity to the historic circuit of Imola
  • Access to the Ferrari Museum
  • Center of the Italian automotive industry
  • Cultural environment rich in motorsport tradition

Structure of the two-week program

The intensive course combines 30 hours of practical classes with cultural activities. Each week has a specific focus, allowing for natural learning progression.

First week: fundamentals

The opening week introduces basic automotive engineering concepts:

  • Aerodynamics applied to motorsport
  • Vehicle dynamics
  • Digital automotive design
  • Introduction to CAD software

Students begin by building a Formula 1 car to scale. This practical project illustrates theoretical principles in a concrete way.

Second week: advanced application

The second stage deepens technical knowledge:

  • Professional racing simulations
  • Telemetry analysis
  • Performance optimization
  • Test on real simulators

Just like in entrepreneurship program in San Francisco, the focus is on the practical application of concepts.

Hands-on teaching methodology

The program adopts a 60% practical and 40% theoretical approach. This proportion ensures that young people absorb knowledge in an engaging way.

Practical activities include:

  • Prototype construction
  • Wind tunnel tests
  • Simulator programming
  • Analysis of real running data

The instructors are active engineers at Dallara. They share real experiences from the development of race cars. This direct connection to the industry sets the program apart from traditional courses.

Exclusive educational tours

The program includes visits that enrich the educational experience:

Ferrari Museum in Maranello

A visit to the museum allows direct contact with the history of the most iconic motoring brand. Students get up close and personal with cars that made Formula 1 history.

Imola Circuit

The Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari hosts memorable races. The visit includes a pit tour and explanations about race logistics.

These experiences complement technical learning with a historical and cultural context. Young people understand how theory is applied in professional practice.

Ideal participant profile

The program serves young people between 15 and 18 years old with an interest in engineering and motoring. No prior technical knowledge is required.

Important Features:

  • Fun facts about technology
  • Interest in mathematics and physics
  • Passion for cars and racing
  • Willingness to learn technical English

Many participants discover a vocation for engineering during the program. Others confirm interest in automotive careers. Some are inspired to engineering studies abroad.

Accommodation and international environment

Participants stay at Campus IT, a modern and secure university residence. The multicultural environment allows contact with young people from different countries.

Campus facilities:

  • Single or shared rooms
  • Common study areas
  • Academia and social spaces
  • 24-hour supervision

Meals are served on campus, including Italian specialties. This cultural immersion complements the educational experience.

Developing future skills

The program develops skills valued in the modern labor market:

Technical Skills:

  • Use of professional CAD software
  • Data analysis and telemetry
  • Principles of aerodynamics
  • Applied design thinking

Interpersonal skills:

  • International teamwork
  • Technical communication in English
  • Complex problem solving
  • Critical thinking

These competencies are applicable not only in motorsport, but in various areas of engineering and technology.

Certification and recognition

At the end, participants receive a certificate from the Dallara Academy. This document is recognized in the European automotive industry.

The certificate can be used in applications to engineering universities. Many institutions value international practical experience in selection processes.

Connections with the industry

The program facilitates networking with professionals in the field. Students get to know Dallara engineers, designers, and managers.

These connections can result in:

  • Future internships
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Career guidance
  • Job opportunities

Impact on professional choice

For many young people, the program sets the professional course. Practical experience clarifies whether automotive engineering is a real vocation.

Others discover interest in related areas:

  • Aerospace engineering
  • Industrial design
  • Material technology
  • Sports management

Similar to what happens in vocational programs for teenagers, experience guides future academic decisions.

Pre-program preparation

Although not mandatory, some preparation can maximize utilization:

Useful knowledge:

  • Intermediate English
  • Basics of physics
  • Familiarity with computers
  • Interest in Mathematics

The Dallara Academy provides preparatory material before the start. This content introduces basic concepts that will be explored in person.

Be Easy: making dreams come true

Studying Race Engineering in Italy may seem distant, but Be Easy makes this experience accessible. Our specialized team takes care of every detail, from enrollment to follow-up during the program. We offer full support so that young people can focus on what really matters: learning and being inspired by the heart of global motorsport. Get in touch and find out how we can help your child live this unique experience at the Dallara Academy!

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Natasha Machado
Founder e CEO, Be Easy