The NASCAR NEXT Engineering Fellowship Program is a two-year rotational initiative designed to create a career pipeline into engineering roles within motorsports for underrepresented populations, with the ultimate goal of increasing representation at the Race Engineer and Crew Chief levels.

The program is expected to launch in Winter 2026, with staggered cohorts launching every other year (i.e., 2027, 2029, etc.).

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• A 2nd-year masters student or a recent Masters graduate in a STEM discipline (e.g., mechanical engineering, computer science, etc.)
• Have a minimum GPA of 2.8
• Be a current member of NSBE, SHPE, or SWE

No. Membership in at least one of these organizations is required for eligibility.

Prior motorsports experience is not required, but a strong interest in motorsports and/or high-performance engineering environments is strongly encouraged.

The program spans two years.

• In Year 1, Fellows will rotate across disciplines within the OEM discipline of their assigned organization.
• Fellows will complete a 4-6 week rotation within NASCAR’s competition, engineering, or officiating departments.
• In Year 2, Fellows will work directly with the respective OEM racing team, with assignments ranging from the Weekly Series to the Cup Series, as determined by the OEM.

One fellow will be selected per OEM per cohort year.

Yes, fellows will receive an anticipated annual salary of approximately $80,000.

Upon successful completion of the two-year program, fellows will have priority consideration for a full-time role with their OEM or team.

Applications for the inaugural Winter 2026 cohort will open in advance of the launch date. Please check the official website for updates.

Visit the program website: nascar.com/engineering-fellowship

Yes. NASCAR, the OEM/Race team and Values Partnerships will work to provide guidance, support and expectations throughout the fellowship experience.

Throughout the fellowship, there will be moments of professional development, training and leadership engagement opportunities.

Yes. Following the successful completion of the program, you are highly encouraged to explore roles across the motorsports industry.

Selected fellows will be expected to relocate to the city where their OEM team operates.

Fellows will be expected to maintain a minimum of 8-hour work days per week.

The ideal candidate will have an interest in the motorsports industry, strong communications skills, a team player, has or can exhibit leadership skills, flexibility and a willingness to learn.

Yes. Virtual interviews are a part of the selection process. You can expect questions around your resume and education experience, why you’re interested in the fellowship/motorsports industry, situational challenges, etc.

If you are in your 2nd year of Masters coursework then you are eligible to apply.