The IMO Racing project, comprised of students from the IES Montes Orientales in Iznalloz, has successfully qualified for the STEM Racing supported by Formula 1 World Finals, scheduled to take place in Singapore this October. This achievement follows months of hard work and dedication, highlighting the value of public education and the potential of young individuals.
The eleven students, in their 4th year of ESO and 1st year of Bachillerato, have become the second-best team in Spain in the Professional category. Beyond designing a scale model car simulating a Formula 1, the project involves using professional engineering software, studying aerodynamics, manufacturing parts, and analyzing every detail to gain milliseconds on the track.
Furthermore, the students are creating a complete racing team: they design their visual identity, develop professional portfolios, manage social media, prepare communication campaigns, seek sponsors, and administer budgets, thereby learning about communication, design, marketing, economic management, and teamwork simultaneously.
The project originated from a call for proposals by the Junta de Andalucía. Teachers Silvia Cerezo and Tania spearheaded the initiative, which demanded significant effort outside of school hours. The students, residing in different municipalities within the Montes Orientales region, often worked remotely, guided by their teachers.
The members of IMO Racing demonstrate proficiency in industrial design software, communication planning, and defending projects before companies. They have learned the importance of social media strategy, professional dossier design, and the challenges of securing sponsors to foster an idea's growth, preparing them for the professional world before even finishing high school.
The primary objective of the project is to teach real-world problem-solving, working under pressure, assuming responsibilities, organizing teams, and discovering professional vocations. The trip to Singapore presents a significant financial challenge, as registration fees, flights, and accommodation exceed the capabilities of the students' families and the institute.
Small businesses from the region have supported the project thus far, enabling their progression to Madrid and now their representation of Andalucía in Asia. Funding is being sought to ensure all eleven students can share the World Finals experience together.
This initiative has been recognized as one of the most compelling stories of the academic year, highlighting the students' development in leadership, communication, teamwork, and resilience. The aspiration is for Granada to resonate strongly in Singapore, with the community's support.
