Chloe Acosta:Test Engineer at Mercedes AMG High-Performance Powertrains (HPP)

Chloe Acosta (middle) at the Michigan Formula SAE Competition

From watching races with her dad as a kid to becoming a Test Engineer at Mercedes AMG High-Performance Powertrains (HPP), Chloe Acosta’s journey into motorsports is a story of determination, innovation, and passion. Currently a student at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, studying Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Electrical Engineering, Chloe has already carved a unique path in an industry she has dreamed of being a part of since childhood.

Her journey began in high school, where a program introducing students to engineering sparked her interest in design and technology. But it was her time at MRacing Formula SAE, the University of Michigan’s Formula Student team, that cemented her career aspirations. During her second year with the team, Chloe led the powertrain team to develop its first all-wheel-drive electric powertrain, a monumental achievement that would shape her future. By her third year, she had risen to the role of Technical Director, overseeing the team’s operations and technological development.

The lessons learned during those years went beyond engineering. Chloe recalls how being a female technical director in a male-dominated field required a fine balance of confidence, collaboration, and decisiveness. She put immense effort into leading with both authority and approachability, proving that skill and leadership know no gender.

Chloe’s accomplishments with MRacing opened doors to transformative opportunities. She interned at Tesla for two summers, where she honed her skills in firmware integration and battery design. As Formula 1 expanded its use of electric powertrains, Chloe saw a chance to bring her expertise to motorsports. When an application for a student placement scheme at Mercedes AMG HPP appeared, she seized the opportunity. Today, Chloe works on testing and developing the cutting-edge power units that propel Mercedes F1 cars to success.

Of course, Chloe’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. One of her greatest obstacles was overcoming self-doubt. “I would consistently tell myself there were better candidates or that my knowledge wasn’t enough,” she admits. Over time, she learned to recognize her strengths and weaknesses, building confidence that allowed her to push past these mental barriers. Her persistence ultimately led her to a role she once thought was out of reach.

Among her proudest achievements is the MRacing vehicle she helped bring to life during her tenure as Technical Director. The car, MR24, was a culmination of countless hours of work, collaboration, and problem-solving with her team. While the team didn’t achieve her dream of winning the Michigan Formula SAE competition, Chloe cherishes the experience and is proud of their ability to compete and represent themselves strongly in the design event.

Now, as a Test Engineer for Mercedes AMG HPP, Chloe finds immense fulfillment in her work on advanced powertrains. She views her role as not just a personal accomplishment but as part of the broader evolution of motorsports. Hybrid powertrains, sustainable fuels, and recyclable materials, she believes, will define the future of the industry, and Chloe is eager to contribute to this transformation.

For aspiring professionals hoping to follow in her footsteps, Chloe’s advice is straightforward: get involved. Whether it’s through university project teams like Formula SAE or other hands-on initiatives, the experience gained will be invaluable. She emphasizes the importance of networking—attending career fairs, reaching out to industry professionals on LinkedIn, and making connections at events. Most importantly, she encourages young talent not to shy away from opportunities, even if rejection feels like a possibility.

Looking ahead, Chloe hopes to not only innovate in the realm of hybrid powertrains but also inspire others to pursue careers in motorsports. She is a firm believer that the field should be accessible to anyone with the passion and determination to succeed, regardless of their background.

Chloe Acosta’s journey is a powerful reminder that trailblazers aren’t born—they are made through hard work, resilience, and an unwavering belief in their dreams. And as she continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in motorsports, Chloe is paving the way for the next generation of innovators to follow.