What I do

The propulsion system of a car is the engine. I test the engines before they go into cars, or I develop them so that they are the best they can be when they do go into cars. I also test boats and planes – any kind of propulsion device.

Hear more about Jack's role by watching the video below...

How I became a technician

After my A-levels in Electronics, Engineering, IT and English Literature, I decided I didn’t want to go to university, so I began to look for other options. I saw this advert for an apprenticeship at Cosworth – which my family all love – and I applied.  

I did a three-year apprenticeship, which I started when I was 18. I gained three qualifications during the apprenticeship, including an NVQ Level 2 in Turning, Machining and Hand Tools, and an NVQ Level 3 in Testing and Overhauling Engines on a dynamometer (a device that is used to measure torque and the rotational speed of a machine).

I wanted to go into an apprenticeship because I wanted a break from classroom education, and I knew that my skills suited a more hands-on role. I wanted to go out and earn money and be more self-sufficient, rather than having another three years or so before I could start working.

A typical day in my
working life

As I have completed my apprenticeship and I am moving up the ladder, I float between quite a few projects. In the morning we get the engines ready to run and when they’re up to temperature, they are checked for leaks. Once we are 100% confident in their working condition, we will fire the engines and do all sorts of tests, like power curves (the range speeds in which it operates effectively).

We control the engines with something called a dynamometer (dyno) which is a big piece of machinery that will hold an engine anywhere you put it. We open the engines to see what horsepower we can get. I control the engine with my hands and will play with the speed and the resistance the dyno is giving.  
We also have durability testing – that could be thirty hours of going round a track to test the engine to make sure it can achieve the level of power for a certain period.

I have travelled quite a bit with Cosworth – I spent the whole of last year on the East Coast of England testing a speedboat engine that we were developing. I have also worked on a customer site developing a new outboard motor for them. I like to travel with Cosworth when I can.

If you don’t have a passion, don’t worry; keep an open mind!

A little more about
my everyday role

What I love most about my job

I love problem solving. With the development side of things there are, unfortunately, so many problems that need to be overcome. When you come to it you have to think on your feet and find a solution; it is very satisfying.  

The best bits about working in a team

We are a close-knit group. The team is incredible, and I have learnt so much. You work together to get things done – even if we need to work until one in the morning, the team keeps you going. 

The most exciting thing I’ve achieved so far in my job

Playing a part in the Aston Martin Valkyrie project was special – that car will be a record breaker for many years to come. Knowing I have worked on it and that I have given that engine a much harder test than anyone who will ever drive it is exciting! It’s a childhood dream to be working here.

The next steps in my career journey

Outside of work, I am currently getting an Engineering HND (Higher National Diploma). After that I would like to move into a management role and run the dynamometer. Alternatively, once I get my HND, I could become an engineer in any field.

Propeller in front of a Royal Air Force plane

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