From ODIN to Formula 1 at Full Speed
Emma Winther-Rasmussen already knew in school that she wanted to become an engineer, but she did not yet know what that meant in practice. A tip from her network led her to Slagelse and to ODIN Engineering. This became the starting point for her ambition to become the first Danish female Formula 1 engineer.
During her school internship at ODIN Engineering in December 2019, theory was quickly replaced by hands-on experience. Emma was not just observing – she worked with welding equipment, designed engines in SolidWorks and saw her own designs produced on a 3D printer.
When she mentioned her interest in robotics, the ODIN team immediately found a robot for her to work with.
“If it hadn’t been for my internship at ODIN, I wouldn’t have known what being an engineer actually involves in practice. My week at the workshop in Slagelse laid the foundation. It was here I started learning the technical language that I now use every day in my studies in England,” says Emma Winther-Rasmussen.
“Internships make a difference. For ODIN, it’s important to support young people in finding their path in both education and working life. We do this by being an active part of the Flere Faglærte network and by offering internships, school presentations and tours, for example for primary schools. We help spark an interest. Some return later to apply for apprenticeships as industrial technicians or welders – or like Emma, they come back for guidance and sparring,” says Britta Hvalsø Olsen, EA & HR Manager at ODIN.
Destination: Oxford Brookes
After her internship at ODIN Engineering, Emma completed her HTX education with a specialisation in Design and Technology, including advanced mathematics.
Today, she is studying for a Motorsport Engineering MEng at the prestigious Oxford Brookes University. Her week includes around 12 hours of classes, combined with practical work in the workshop, where she works on Formula 4 cars and carbon fibre components.
In 2026, advanced suspension design is part of her studies. Together with her group, she is working on redesigning the suspension of a British Touring Car – a technology that may later be transferable to passenger vehicles.
The Goal: A Graduate Role in Formula 1 by 2028
Emma still has two years left of her degree before she can pursue her goal. In 2028, she plans to apply for a graduate role with a Formula 1 team.
“Who knows where I’ll be in ten years? I hope I’ve been part of designing a championship-winning car and helped pave the way for more women in motorsport,” she says.
At ODIN, they continue to follow her journey. “We’re, of course, excited to see where Emma’s path leads. She has strong drive and curiosity, and we’re cheering her on and wishing her all the best,” says Britta Hvalsø Olsen.
But the Dream Comes at a Cost
The path to becoming Denmark’s first female Formula 1 engineer requires more than top grades and technical skills. Unlike Formula 1 drivers, who often have sponsors, an engineering student like Emma must secure funding through scholarships and private donations.
Studying in England costs more than £17,000 per year. Alongside her studies, Emma works part-time and relies on grants and financial support to reach her goal.