A young motorsport enthusiast has turned a lifelong passion for fast cars into a rapidly accelerating career, earning the title Automotive Student of the Year: Motorsport and securing an apprenticeship with Walkinshaw Andretti United – one of Australia’s most respected racing organisations.

Growing up attending the Formula 1 in Melbourne and local car meets, motorsport always felt exciting to Will Brownlee, but out of reach.

(Kangan Institute apprentice, Will Brownlee, at our Automotive Centre of Excellence)

After finishing school and working casual jobs, the dream of working in the industry seemed distant, until discovering the automotive programs at Kangan Institute.

“Once I started training at Kangan [Institute] and saw what was possible, it felt like a whole new world opened up,” said Will.

At Kangan Institute, Will found not only technical training but a strong support network.

“They’ve always been there with guidance and feedback. I’ve felt included from day one.”

Preparing for the intensity of the racing environment, Will credits the hands-on training he received at Kangan Institute alongside real motorsport exposure with helping him feel ready to step up.

Landing an apprenticeship with Walkinshaw has been a defining milestone for Will.

“Joining Walkinshaw has been surreal. The team made me feel like family straight away. I’m learning new skills every day – in the workshop and at the track – and I feel heard, seen and valued.” Said Will.

Winning Kangan Institute’s Automotive Student of the Year: Motorsport capped off a standout year that included contributing to a championship-winning season.

“It feels amazing. All the hard work paid off, and it’s boosted my confidence even more.”

With all this momentum, the long-term vision is clear for Will; continue building experience in the V8 Supercars paddock before eventually pursuing opportunities overseas.

“I love the V8s, but I also have a passion for formula cars. One day I’d love to work with a Formula 1, 2 or 3 team.”