Automotive Research and Development Education and Training

Learn the skills to work in auto R & D

Auto research and development is an exciting field. Those who work in research and development departments in automotive companies get to discover new ways to design and build cars for the public. Car research and development is also responsible for improving new fuel technologies, which now include hybrid and fully electric fuel systems.

Those who want to work in automotive research and development will need skills in research, auto systems, and even marketing. Because the auto industry research is very competitive, only the most qualified will be hired to work for a research and development firm. Choose automotive research and development education and training provided by:

1. Colleges and universities with a degree program in automotive engineering.

2. Trade shows that provide a look at prototypes from other companies.

3. Continuing education resources for automotive industry research

 

Train to be an automotive engineer and work in auto R and D

If you want to work in R and D for automobiles, you should start your education with basic knowledge car and truck systems. This way, you'll learn about the mechanics of an automobile, as well as the design process. Many four-year programs provide the skills necessary to work with research and development teams that design and perform laboratory tests.
Try: Michigan Technological University offers an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering technology that focuses on the testing and designing mechanical systems. For additional training, the University of Michigan provides a master's degree program in automotive engineering that has a large focus on advanced laboratory research.

Explore automobile research and development through internships

To get a close-up look at the automotive R & D industry, apply for internships with automobile manufacturers. Manufacturers offer a variety of internship positions in research and development during the summer months. To qualify for an internship, you must be seeking a bachelor's or master's degree and have at least a year of automotive-related experience.
Try: Honda offers cooperative educational opportunities and internship positions at its research and development department. Ford Motors offers a summer internship in research and development where you'll apply advanced engineering skills.

Get continuing education in automotive technology research

Research and development is a constantly changing industry. New technologies are emerging faster than ever, so automotive engineers should enroll in continuing education programs. These programs teach new technologies, new concepts and laboratory testing practices.
Try: SAE International offers many seminars for the automotive industry that include training on testing and design processes. Kettering University offers a continuing education program for professionals in the automotive engineering industry. The Federal Lab Consortium for Technology Transfer offers continuing education resources through a network of technology labs. The Center for Automotive Research organizes and annual conference where industry players, academics and regulators come together to exchange new information.

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