When passion meets perseverance, the result is often extraordinary, and Iqra Hamid exemplifies this perfectly. As a Senior Engineer at Triumph Motorcycles, Iqra has crafted a career that’s both groundbreaking and inspiring, navigating a traditionally male-dominated industry with grace, determination, and a love for motorsport that started before she could even walk.
For Iqra, motorsport wasn’t just a career choice—it was a calling. “We’ve always had a motorbike in the house” she shares, reflecting on her early days. Her father played a pivotal role in nurturing her love for bikes, sparking a fascination that eventually led her to pursue engineering at the University of Warwick. “Engineering felt like the right fit—a blend of technical creativity and problem-solving” she explains.
After joining Triumph as a design engineer, Iqra’s exceptional talent quickly shone through. Within months, she was entrusted with overseeing Triumph’s prestigious 765 race projects, including Moto2, the Isle of Man TT, and the Daytona 200. This responsibility—working on engines that power some of the most iconic races in the world—is nothing short of a dream realised.
Iqra’s journey to motorsport greatness, however, was not without its challenges. As a young student with dreams of becoming an engineer, she encountered significant obstacles in school,,“I was placed in some of the lower sets, often facing challenges with exams and being predicted below average grades". Teachers underestimated her abilities, and she was even discouraged from pursuing certain subjects that were essential for her chosen career path.
For many, this might have been a deterrent, but for Iqra, it became fuel for her ambition. “I worked day and night, teaching myself everything I could” she says. Her relentless dedication paid off, eventually earning her the recognition and opportunities she had long deserved. Looking back, Iqra reflects, “While it wasn’t an easy journey, it shaped who I am today and taught me the importance of resilience.”
Despite loving engineering and motorsport from a young age, Iqra never imagined she could make a career of it. “I didn’t think it was possible to work in this industry, let alone at the level I do now” she says. Today, her role at Triumph is proof that barriers, no matter how entrenched, can be overcome with determination and self-belief.
With her perseverance and technical expertise established, Iqra’s professional journey took off at Triumph. Her workdays are as dynamic as the motorcycles she helps create. From conceptual designs to trackside testing, no two days are alike. “During the design phases, I’m in the office working on calculations, CAD, simulations, and engineering drawings” she says. But it’s not just about theory—she also works hands-on with technicians, ensuring prototypes are built to perfection.
The culmination of her efforts is seen on race days, where Iqra monitors performance and extracts maximum potential from the engines. “It’s surreal to watch something you’ve worked on so tirelessly come to life on the racetrack” she says. The diversity of her role ensures it’s never monotonous, a key factor in her enjoyment of the job.
The high stakes of motorsport engineering come with their fair share of pressure, something Iqra navigates with unwavering optimism and determination. “There have been times when things weren’t going to plan, but I always believe something will work out” she shares. For Iqra, preparation is key. Countless hours of effort go into ensuring everything runs smoothly, and she relies on her passion to drive her forward.
Her advice to others in similar high-pressure roles is simple yet powerful: “Be confident in your work and let your passion guide you. Challenges will come, but perseverance is what matters.”
Beyond her work at Triumph, Iqra is a passionate advocate for STEM and women in engineering. Having faced barriers herself, she is committed to inspiring the next generation. “I tick pretty much every box when it comes to barriers—gender, culture, social and financial background” she explains. These experiences have shaped her mission to support young girls who may be doubting their potential.
For Iqra, representation matters. “It feels like a duty to show young girls they can do the same and that these barriers are surmountable” she says. Her advocacy is rooted in action, whether it’s through raising awareness, sharing her story, or breaking down stereotypes.
For women aspiring to enter engineering or motorsport, Iqra offers advice steeped in experience: “Don’t underestimate yourself, even if others do. Focus on your path, gain experience, build connections, and don’t shy away from proving people wrong.”
While the journey may have its challenges, she assures that the sense of accomplishment is worth every effort. “Those moments where you can say, ‘I made it,’ make everything worthwhile.”
Looking ahead, Iqra is excited about the ever-evolving landscape of motorsport engineering. From advancements in technology to the industry’s response to sustainability, the possibilities are endless. “It’s interesting to see how the balance between performance, regulations, and technology will shape the future of motorsport” she notes.
Iqra’s story serves as a powerful reminder that no dream is too ambitious for those willing to chase it. Her work is paving the way for future generations to break barriers and redefine the limits of what’s possible in motorsport.
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