Bernie Collins is an accomplished race strategy engineer with over a decade of experience in Formula 1. Most recently, she served as the Head of Race Strategy for the Aston Martin F1 Team, where she was responsible for overseeing race strategies that maximized performance and championship points. Bernie’s deep knowledge of race dynamics and her calm and decisive leadership made her a key player in the success of the teams she worked with.
Bernie’s interest in mechanics began during her childhood in Northern Ireland, where she worked with her father to dismantle and repair farm machinery. Her passion for engineering led her to study mechanical engineering at Queen’s University Belfast, where she participated in the renowned Formula Student programme engineering competition. After graduating, Bernie’s career in motorsport quickly progressed, starting with a graduate trainee programme at McLaren.
She soon earned a role as a performance engineer, working closely with world-class drivers and gaining experience in both Formula 1 and GT racing. In 2015, Bernie joined Force India, where she played a pivotal role in shaping the team’s race strategies, contributing to significant podium finishes and helping to secure strong results in the Constructors' Championship.
In 2020, Bernie took on the Head of Race Strategy role at Aston Martin, where she led strategic decisions during Grands Prix, balancing complex data from drivers, engineers, and external race factors. Her insights were crucial in guiding the team through fast-paced, high-pressure scenarios.
In 2023, Bernie transitioned into broadcasting, joining Sky Sports F1 as a race strategy expert. She now provides detailed analysis to fans, helping to demystify the complexities of Formula 1 strategy decisions.
Bernie Collins shares insights into the intricacies of Formula 1 race strategy, drawing from her years of experience in top-tier motorsport teams. Bernie explains how data-driven decisions and rapid problem-solving impact race outcomes. Attendees will learn how to apply these high-stakes, high-pressure tactics to business and leadership challenges. Bernie’s clear, analytical style engages audiences, offering unique perspectives from the world of F1 engineering.
Since the late 1980s, Formula One has embraced a data-driven culture focused on marginal gains and continuous improvement. Teams use data to manage risk, optimize performance, and make fast decisions. Data analytics help drivers, engineers, and staff diagnose issues and solve problems, while robust security systems protect global information flow. Big Data's impact is accelerating with technologies like AI, machine learning, and additive manufacturing. Attendees will learn how F1 uses data to enhance all aspects of its operations.
In Formula One, success relies on exceptional teamwork, with over a thousand staff collaborating under immense pressure. Engineers, pit crews, and others work seamlessly to meet strict safety, reliability, and performance standards. A culture of accountability, responsibility, and open communication is key to staying aligned in a rapidly changing environment. Discover how to apply F1’s teamwork principles — excellence, innovation, and adaptability — to your own team for continuous success.
