Hexagon and Red Bull Racing Join Forces to Fix Manufacturing’s Talent Crisis
In an innovative bid to close the skills gap in manufacturing, Hexagon—a global leader in digital reality solutions—has teamed up with Red Bull Racing, Formula 1’s most technologically advanced team. The collaboration aims to attract young talent by highlighting how cutting-edge F1 engineering mirrors the skills needed in modern factories.
The Manufacturing Skills Shortage: A Global Challenge
The manufacturing industry faces a critical talent deficit. A World Economic Forum report predicts 2.1 million unfilled jobs by 2030, with India’s “Make in India” initiative particularly hampered by shortages in automation, robotics, and data analytics.
“We need to do something different,” says Paolo Guglielmini, Hexagon CEO. “Traditional training can’t keep up. Partnering with Red Bull Racing lets us showcase manufacturing as dynamic and exciting.”
Why Formula 1? Bridging Tech and Inspiration
Red Bull Racing’s dominance hinges on precision engineering, AI-driven analytics, and advanced materials—the same tools revolutionizing smart factories.
“F1 is a live lab for manufacturing innovation,” explains Christian Horner, Red Bull Racing Team Principal. “Together with Hexagon, we’re proving these skills can lead to careers as thrilling as racing.”
Key Initiatives:
- STEM Workshops: F1 case studies teach applied engineering in schools.
- Apprenticeships: Direct training with Hexagon and Red Bull engineers.
- Digital Twin Demos: Show how virtual F1 car models optimize factory processes.
India’s Opportunity: From Skills Gap to Global Hub
India’s automotive and aerospace sectors are racing toward Industry 4.0, but talent lags. Ravi Kumar, Hexagon India MD, notes: “This partnership creates real pathways for Indian youth in AI, additive manufacturing, and more.”
A Blueprint for the Future?
Like Siemens’ Manchester City collaboration, this model merges aspirational brands with technical education. For young professionals, the takeaway is clear: tomorrow’s factories demand digital fluency and creativity—not just manual skills.
“Manufacturing isn’t just about making things,” says Guglielmini. “It’s about making the impossible possible.”
