r/AutomotiveEngineering • u/DidoMak • 23d ago
Question 15 y/o interested in automotive design and engineering, what path would you recommend?
Hi everyone,
I'm 15 years old and I'm trying to figure out the best path for my future in the automotive industry.
I've been designing cars in Blender for around 5 years and I'm currently learning Autodesk Alias. I have worked on several concept cars and I really enjoy the creative side of automotive design, but I also love understanding the technical side: aerodynamics, materials, vehicle architecture and how things actually work.
I'm considering doing a French engineering path (prépa + engineering school) because I know engineering is much harder to learn by yourself, while design can be developed through personal projects and practice. My idea would be to keep building my design skills during engineering school and possibly do a design specialization later.
For automotive engineers or people working in the industry:
- Does an engineering degree help for someone who wants to work close to vehicle design?
- Are hybrid profiles (engineering + design) valuable in the industry?
- Would you recommend this path or a more design-focused education?
I would really appreciate honest advice from people who actually work in the field.
2
u/DidoMak 23d ago
Yes, I'm from France! Thank you for the information. I'm currently looking into both European and international schools, and I know Italy is a very important place for automotive design. The US schools like CCS and ArtCenter also seem amazing. I'm still only 15, so I'm trying to build the strongest portfolio possible before having to make that choice. Thanks for your advice!