Personal Profile
Name: Ximena Garcia- Peña
College: University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Hometown: Hickory, NC
Major: Mechanical Engineering w/ Concentration in Motorsports
Aspirational Car: Porsche 911 GT3 RS
10-Year Prediction in auto/motorsports: Cars will be more sustainable,
and the majority will be EV.
What You May Not Know About Me: I enjoy learning new hobbies,
my most recent one is pickleball.
How did you get so interested in the auto/motorsports industry?
My interest in the motorsports industry started early on, working alongside my dad on cars. Those hands-on experiences ignited a passion for engineering and mechanics. When I got to college, I found that my fascination with aerodynamics perfectly aligned with the world of motorsports, where precision and performance are everything. That connection deepened my commitment to the industry, and now I’m fully immersed in exploring how advanced aerodynamics can push the boundaries of what’s possible in racing.
What automotive aspect interests you the most?
Aerodynamics really fascinates me because there's so much room for learning and discovery. I’m captivated by how even small changes can have a huge impact on performance, and I love the challenge of constantly pushing the boundaries to find new and better solutions.
How do you approach the challenges of being a minority engineering student in what has been traditionally a non-minority career path?
I approach everything I do with full confidence and a willingness to ask questions. Even when there’s doubt about my abilities, my goal isn’t to prove myself, but to help others see things differently. I strive to change perspectives by being humble, genuine, and focused on collaboration rather than competition.
What would you like your first job/career opportunity to be?
I would love to work as an aerodynamicist but am also very open in learning about other opportunities!
Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?
I see myself owning my own business while still pursuing my passion for motorsports with a company that shares my values. I hope to be surrounded by family and great friends who make the journey even more meaningful, all while glorifying God in everything I do.
About STEAM Sports Foundation
Recognizing workforce and economic development as integral parts of corporate growth, STEAM Sports Foundation works with companies, educators and sports groups to develop initiatives around science, technology, engineering, arts and math that impact the world of sports & entertainment.
The foundation’s focus is on scholarships and career summits in an effort to help create tomorrow’s vibrant workforce. Its minority female scholarship program in motorsports and automotive engineering provides diversity to a transportation industry that is ever-changing via innovation and technology with individuals who traditionally did not consider these career paths simply because they saw few who looked like them in the industry.
Donations can be made via PayPal. ACH transfers are available. Benevity registered.
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