Automotive/motorsport internships

[olason]

I am sure people ask about this; I have seen it on other forums in a google search. Other than the OEM manufacturers does anybody know of a good company to intern for. I am a junior in mechanical engineering at North Dakota State, and I have previously interned at Bobcat Company on their new M-series loader line. I grew up on the family farm in North Dakota, and my dad has tried to keep me away from motorsports. Half of the reason he may be keeping me away is that we are always busy with the farm, he always has a project.

I have applied to a lot of the agricultural companies already, as well as Oshkosh and Boeing. I would really like to get into motorsports with an engineering internship. The race companies websites don't really show anything for careers as I assume they are on who someone knows for the job. What are State-side based race series that could possibly have an internship opportunity?

Thanks for feedback, it may be a long shot, but it would be more hands-on I believe than some bigger company internships. My internship at Bobcat let me take ownership of an area, train in another intern on the area, even deal with contractors to getting the new layout set up in 3-D with Pro Engineer WF 4.0. I love being engaged in a project and seeing progress towards a goal. I wish my car had more progress, but school and the farm come first.

Thanks again,

Kyle

[HarleyR]

Your dad has a valid point about staying away from motorsports.... unless its for fun on the weekends.I've been racing for a paycheck since 99..straight out of high school and have no regrets...its been the best thing thats ever happened to me...theres a lot of money to be made,However the industry is so bad right it offers little chance for long term employment.. sure a team may accept you as an intern and you might have a great time and learn something..but i would suggest devoting your time to a real job.Something with security and long term advancements within the company... plus you wont have to worry come every november if your going to get layed off along with the several other hundred folks.Im not trying to crush your dreams but sometimes the best advice is something you dont want to hear..