When it comes to good decision-making, the approach we use is even more important than the decision itself.

If we train ourselves to understand and tackle problems effectively, we’re more likely to make consistently good decisions and develop long-term solutions. Technology can help us analyse data and arrive at conclusions quickly, but even with all the available tools, it still takes a human to make the right call at the right time.

That’s why strategic thinking is one of the most valuable skills you can develop for a successful career in STEM – especially if, like many of our 60 Scholars participants, you have your sights set on a future in Formula 1.

Through mentorship sessions, panel discussions, skills workshops, and hands-on experiences with inspiring figures from across McLaren Racing and its partner organisations, the 60 Scholars programme is helping to prepare young women like Alannah and Annabelle to step into STEM careers with confidence. 

Throughout the programme, we’ve been speaking to a selection of these women to learn more about what they’ve gained from the 60 Scholars experience.

Choosing the right path

Alannah graduated from university this summer with a degree in theoretical physics. Unsure of the next steps that would help her achieve her dream career, she applied to McLaren Racing’s 60 Scholars programme to gain insights from role models and to find out where her academic background could take her.

To support scholars like Alannah in building the right foundations for their STEM careers, Deloitte, an Official Programme Partner, delivered a virtual immersion on strategic thinking.

In an in-depth online session run by Shruti Jayakumar, Senior Manager, Innovation at Deloitte, scholars learnt a variety of frameworks for analysing problems, identifying root causes, framing questions effectively, and structuring thinking processes. ​They were also set a breakout session task of using the skills and techniques they’d learnt to frame an approach that could address female representation in STEM.

But it wasn’t just the skills workshop that Alannah loved, it was the chance to hear from keynote speaker Shruti about her own career.

“Hearing from women like Shruti was one of the most enjoyable parts of the programme,” she says. “We all got so many great insights into how to build the career you want and overcome challenges along the way – it’s given me so much confidence that my goals for a career in STEM are achievable. What I really loved was just how generous the leaders were with their time, allowing us to connect and ask questions even after the sessions ended. I’ve gained so many role models which just gives me extra confidence as I start my career.”

Combining your passions

Annabelle Hepworth, who’s studying geography and sustainable development, is also hoping to build a career in F1. She’s loved the sport since she was a child, but her early impressions left her thinking she couldn’t aspire to certain male-dominated roles. A key pillar of our sustainability targets, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, is focused on shifting this mindset and providing opportunities to those from underrepresented backgrounds.

It was Annabelle’s love of sustainability that sparked her belief that she could have a career that combined her two passions.

“I would love to go into sustainability in Formula 1! The 60 Scholars programme has helped me realise that there is a place for women in motorsport and that companies like McLaren and Deloitte are being super supportive.”

The Deloitte immersion has shown her how she can apply strategic thinking skills to complex sustainability issues.

“I’m fascinated by the ways we can make motorsport more sustainable and achieve net zero – not just through the technology and cars themselves, but everything around it, like making events more sustainable and influencing fan behaviours. As I progress in my career, I know I’ll have lots of opportunities to use and hone the skills I’ve learnt through this immersion.”

Central to Annabelle’s career development is not being afraid to network, which is key to extracting the most from the 60 Scholars programme. Throughout the course, those taking part are introduced to leaders from McLaren Racing and our Official Partners, as well as the 59 other scholars, each with their own bright future in STEM.

“It's been a bit of a mindset shift to see networking as a positive because I think the very label can seem quite aggressive. The programme’s helped me understand that networking is a perfectly normal – and crucial – part of career development and that I play a role in a mutually beneficial relationship. It’s not just about me wanting a job; it’s about building collaborative communities, and I realise that, thanks to the programme, I’m now in one!”

For anyone thinking about applying, Alannah Bain couldn’t recommend the 60 Scholars programme enough.

“For any women wanting a career in STEM, those initial steps can seem quite daunting, but this programme provides so many role models who offer incredible advice and insights, while being walking proof that there’s a network to access and a place for you in your chosen industry. The launch event at the McLaren Technology Centre was one of the most incredible experiences. The whole day I just couldn’t believe I was there, seeing all the cars on the Boulevard and all the trophies in the cabinets, not to mention just how inspiring the keynote speakers were. I can confidently say it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made.”