Rob is originally from Normanby, Middlesbrough and has built an outstanding career as an engineer in Formula 1 racing. His career started with Peugeot, then with Williams and Jordan. He moved to work for Ferrari in 2007 and was later appointed as Felipe Massa鈥檚 race engineer. Rob is also a high profile supporter of the charity SANDS (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society). On the following day, Friday 27 November, Rob will be awarded an honorary degree from 海角直播, a Doctor of Professional Studies, in a special ceremony at Middlesbrough Town Hall.
He will receive his degree from the University鈥檚 Chancellor, Lord Sawyer of Darlington along with four other distinguished individuals, in a ceremony starting at 11.00am.
Professor Simon Hodgson, Dean of the School of Science & Engineering, said: 'We are delighted to welcome Rob Smedley, who is such a talented and high profile figure, not only to give his guest lecture but also to formally launch the new School identity. We have adopted the new title as the School of Science & Engineering to mark our focus on supporting the science and engineering industries of the future, and to celebrate the region鈥檚 rich engineering heritage.
Developing the Problem Solvers, Innovators and Leaders of the future 'At the event we will also be unveiling the wider development of our School鈥檚 new mission 鈥� Developing the Problem Solvers, Innovators and Leaders of the future.
'For the past two years, the School has completed a comprehensive review and redesign of every course we offer, working towards a vision of a new and distinctive style of university education. Our focus will be on producing graduates with highly developed skills in the application of academic knowledge in the real world.'