For Christina Sullivan, a career in Formula 1 wasn’t a lifelong ambition – it wasn’t even on the radar until a few years ago. Now, the 27-year-old is a wind tunnel systems engineer with Williams Racing, a position she attributes to a surprising source of inspiration: the Netflix docuseries Drive to Survive. Her journey highlights the growing impact of the show on attracting a new generation to the sport and particularly, to STEM careers within it.
Sullivan’s path to Williams wasn’t traditional. While studying for an engineering degree at the University of Waterloo in Canada, a planned work placement fell through due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Seeking alternatives, she and her sister began watching Drive to Survive in 2021, and quickly became captivated by the world of Formula 1. “We really got into the show,” Sullivan said. “I got really interested in the sport, the technical side and the engineering side.” This newfound passion sparked a career change she hadn’t anticipated.
The impact of Drive to Survive extends beyond individual career paths. According to the 2025 Global F1 Fan Survey, the proportion of female fans has dramatically increased, growing from 8% in 2017 to 42% in 2024. This surge in interest is directly linked to the show’s ability to humanize the drivers and teams, making the sport more accessible and appealing to a wider audience.
Meet Christina Sullivan, Wind Tunnel Electronics and Systems Engineer at Atlassian Williams Racing
Sullivan’s initial foray into F1 came through an internship at Williams’ headquarters in Oxfordshire. She described the opportunity as a “big pivot,” as she hadn’t previously followed the sport. Her sister, a long-time F1 fan, was thrilled when Sullivan secured the interview. After completing her placement year, she returned to Canada to finish her degree and was subsequently offered a full-time position with the team upon graduation.
As a Wind Tunnel Electronics and Systems Engineer, Sullivan plays a crucial role in optimizing the performance of the Williams car. Her work involves replicating track conditions in a wind tunnel using a scale model, allowing engineers to analyze the car’s aerodynamics and identify areas for improvement. The data collected from these tests directly informs design changes aimed at enhancing the car’s speed, and handling. She initially joined Atlassian Williams Racing as a student, working in the Aero Test Facilities team, a role she described as a “truly fascinating experience.”
Sullivan’s story isn’t unique. The show’s behind-the-scenes access has resonated with many, revealing the complex engineering and strategic elements that underpin the sport. “What really ignited my passion for F1,” Sullivan explained in an interview with Females in Motorsport, “was watching Drive to Survive on Netflix. Seeing all the behind-the-scenes action made the sport come alive for me.” She emphasizes that F1 is “not just about fast cars but also the stories and the people involved.”
The impact of Drive to Survive is also evident in the increased interest in STEM fields among young women. Sullivan’s journey serves as an inspiring example of how exposure to engaging content can spark a passion for engineering and open doors to unexpected career opportunities. She acknowledges that challenges will always exist, but embraces them as opportunities for innovation and growth.
As Formula 1 continues to grow in popularity, fueled in part by the success of Drive to Survive, the demand for skilled engineers like Christina Sullivan will likely increase. The sport’s commitment to innovation and sustainability will create further opportunities for those with a passion for technology and a desire to push the boundaries of what’s possible. The next step for Williams Racing, and Sullivan’s team, will be focused on implementing the data gathered from wind tunnel testing into the design of the 2027 car, aiming for a competitive edge in the upcoming season.
What are your thoughts on the impact of Drive to Survive on Formula 1? Share your opinions in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with fellow F1 enthusiasts!
