Personal Profile
Name: Jayda Jenkins
College: The University of Texas at San Antonio
Hometown: Austin, TX
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Aspirational Car: Ferrari 250 GTO
10-Year Prediction in auto/motorsports:
My prediction for the next 10 years in the auto/motorsports industry is that it will embrace VR technology, allowing fans to experience races firsthand. VR headsets with connections to sensors and cameras placed on racers' helmets will broadcast the driver's perspective in real time. This innovation will enable fans to watch races as though they were their favorite racer, providing an immersive and thrilling experience.
What You May Not Know About Me:
My great-grandfather, Huston Martin, is a motorsports icon representing five generations and more than70 years of racing. He moved to Detroit in 1952, starting a 33-year career at General Motors before founding Martin Trucking, which paved the way for MARTIN MOTORSPORTS, now a multimillion dollar global corporation. His passion for racing began in 1957, leading to the creation of 29 racecars under the “Little Kim” trademark. Known as the “Weekend Warrior,” he was honored by NHRA and IHRA, inducted into the National Motorsports Association Hall of Fame, and held the record for most wins in Detroit Dragway history. In 2018, a street at Detroit Autorama was named after him, along with a replica of his 1968 Camaro race car. My grandfather, Harold Martin, followed in his footsteps, becoming a renowned engineer, successful racecar driver, and former GM employee. He now leads Martin Technologies, a global automotive company in Novi, MI.
My mother, Shavonne Martin (Jenkins), is a real estate magnate in Austin and Greater Central TX. She married my dad, Evay Jenkins, a fellow car enthusiast, who sold cars, including custom MARTIN Vehicles, some of which are in museums worldwide.
How did you get so interested in the auto/motorsports industry?
I’m grateful to have inherited a deep passion for the automotive world and hope to continue our family's rich legacy in motorsports. Growing up in an automotive family, my passion for cars developed naturally. As an athlete with a competitive spirit, I was drawn to motorsports. Experiencing the thrill of driving deepened my appreciation for racing and street cars. While I may not be on the track myself, following motorsports allows me to channel my enthusiasm and stay connected to the competitive side of the automotive world. My fascination goes beyond watching races; I’ve dedicated time to learning about automotive engineering and design. This pursuit of knowledge fuels my love for cars and enhances my appreciation for the innovation behind each vehicle. This journey into the automotive world is the next level of competition and passion for me.
What automotive aspect interests you the most?
My love for automobiles comes from a deep appreciation for both their powertrains and design. The intricate mechanics of the powertrain, which are key to a car's performance, never fail to spark my curiosity. But it’s not just the mechanics that draw me in; the sleek lines of a vehicle's exterior and the cutting-edge technology that enhances its functionality are equally captivating. The way advanced technology and powerful engineering come together to create something both beautiful and high performing is what truly fuels my passion for the automotive world.
How do you approach the challenges of being a minority engineering student in what has been traditionally a non-minority career path?
As a minority engineering student in motorsports, I embrace challenges with resilience and innovation. My passion drives me to bring fresh ideas and diverse perspectives to the industry. I see my background not as a hurdle, but as a chance to enrich the field. By engaging with networks supporting underrepresented groups, I gain valuable insights and aim to challenge stereotypes. My goal is to inspire others and promote greater inclusivity and innovation in motorsports, helping to create a more dynamic future for the industry.
What would you like your first job/career opportunity to be?
Powertrain Engineer or Race Engineer
Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?
In 10 years, I see myself thriving as a designer and engineer specializing in performance cars, potentially working internationally. My journey will be fueled by a commitment to cutting-edge automotive technology and innovation. I aim to excel in my field and eventually own my race team, where my expertise and passion will create something extraordinary. Collaborating with top racers and automotive giants will be a career pinnacle, allowing me to leave a mark on the industry I love. I also dream of opening my Performance Lab, a personal haven where I can immerse myself in motorsports. This space will be for fine-tuning cars, working on special projects, and indulging in automotive innovation, blending my professional achievements with my passion. I envision sharing this journey with my husband, who will join me in life and on the track. Racing together will add excitement to our lives as we travel the world to witness the biggest races, with Le Mans at the top of my list. We will raise our kids to be competitors, introducing them to the world of racing from a young age. In this decade, I’ll balance a dynamic career, a flourishing personal life, and experiences that take my passion for motorsports to new heights. Every project, race, and journey will bring me closer to achieving my ultimate dream.
About STEAM Sports Foundation
Recognizing workforce and economic development as integral parts of corporate growth STEAM Sports Foundation works with companies, educators and sports groups to develop initiatives around science, technology, engineering, arts and math that impact the world of sports & entertainment.
The foundation’s focus is on scholarships and career summits in an effort to help create tomorrow’s vibrant workforce. Its minority female scholarship program in motorsports and automotive engineering provides diversity to a transportation industry that is ever-changing via innovation and technology with individuals who traditionally did not consider these career paths simply because they saw few who looked like them in the industry.
Donations can be made via PayPal. ACH transfers are available. Benevity registered.
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