Atlassian Williams F1 Team and Komatsu expand Engineering Academy through Formula Student collaboration
From 2026, Academy members will be recruited in collaboration with Formula Student and with the support of Formula SAE
Published
28 MAY 2026
Est. reading time
3 min
The hunt for the next generation of exceptional engineers is on – as Atlassian Williams F1 Team and Komatsu launch the third edition of the Komatsu Williams Engineering Academy.
The global programme aims to recruit the world’s most talented young engineers, and supercharge their career ambitions through e-learning, trackside experiences, visits to cutting edge manufacturing facilities, and mentorship from experts at industry-leading machinery manufacturer Komatsu and iconic F1 team Williams.
From 2026, the Academy will be run in collaboration with Formula Student, a leading engineering competition for university students, and with the support of Formula SAE, its sister competition for students around the world. Academy members will be selected from the competition’s finalist pools, both at Silverstone in the UK and virtually through global assessment centres.
The Komatsu Williams Engineering Academy is a staple of Williams’ grid-leading Early Careers offering and is entering its third year. The team is committed to investing in the talent of the future through their industrial placements, graduate programmes, and work experience. Today, 12% of all staff members are from Early Careers. Komatsu supports community-based programmes around the world designed to attract and train new generations of engineering and technical talent.
Formula Student UK finalists can apply for the academy from June 8th. FSAE competitors should stay tuned for virtual applications later this year.
Ann Perrins, Chief People Officer, Atlassian Williams F1 Team:
“Here at Atlassian Williams F1 Team, we know that our success depends on the talent of the future. Programmes like the Komatsu Williams Engineering Academy give us a unique opportunity to identify talent and accelerate their rise whether that’s in motorsport, industrial engineering, or machinery. We look forward to meeting the finalists at Silverstone and virtually later this year.”
Takuya Imayoshi, President and CEO Komatsu
“Over the past 105 years, Komatsu has prided itself on developing the technical expertise of our people around the world. Our partnership with Atlassian Williams F1 Team is designed to attract and develop the next generation of diverse technical talent as we continue growing and delivering innovative solutions for customers around the world. The Komatsu Williams Engineering Academy is a great opportunity for young engineers to fast track their career – we look forward to seeing this amazing talent on display.”
Dan Jones, Chief Judge, IMechE Formula Student:
“Since its inception, the goal of Formula Student has been to provide opportunities for young engineers to develop their skills and gain experience to better prepare them for their careers in industry. For many competitors, including myself, this has helped in achieving their dream of working in F1. This collaboration with the Komatsu Williams Engineering Academy aligns perfectly with the competition's goal and is an amazing chance for our student competitors to take an invaluable next step toward working at the highest levels of motorsport. Best of luck to all applicants!”