February 15, 2013 - NASA aspirations transform into NASCAR reality

Katy Renard, 2005 graduate of NASCAR Tech, is managing NASCARS’s chassis pre-certification department.

Wickliffe, Ohio native Katy Renard did not imagine she would be working for NASCAR after she graduated from Kent State University with a degree in mathematics. Now, five years after starting with the premier racing organization, Renard is having the time of her life.  

Growing up, Renard always had a knack for math and technology, and had the ability to solve complex problems. But that skill set, in her mind, was better suited for NASA than NASCAR.

After completing her degree, Renard envisioned herself at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in nearby Cleveland. But like a pit crew switching out tires during a Sprint Cup race, Renard’s career path was changing…quickly.

Intrigued by the work being done behind the racing scenes, and the technology being implemented to fine tune these automotive powerhouses, Renard realized she was no longer going to trail the pace car; she decided to go for something that at the time might have been considered a long shot.

“If you have a passion for something you need to pursue it,” said Renard. “With hard work, dedication, and desire you can achieve anything.”

After some initial research, Renard knew NASCAR Technical Institute (NASCAR Tech) in Mooresville, N.C. was where she needed to go to have a shot at breaking into the sport. Renard enrolled at NASCAR Tech in February 2004, and was quickly learning the ins and outs of the vehicles that would eventually define her career.

Renard always knew NASCAR Tech would provide her quality training, but it was NASCAR Tech’s unparalleled industry relationships that caught her attention.

“The partnerships and relationships NASCAR Tech has within the industry is what ultimately led me to the school,” said Renard. “NASCAR Tech would give me the experience that would allow me to get my foot in the door.”

A standout student, Renard graduated from NASCAR Tech in March 2005. With the help of John Dodson, community/NASCAR team relations director for NASCAR Tech, and countless others, Renard was able to secure a series of interviews with top-tier teams and secured a position with FitzBradshaw Racing soon after.   

“John Dodson was a huge help in getting me interviews and landing that first job [with FitzBradshaw Racing],” said Renard. “I interviewed with a lot of teams that probably wouldn’t have talked to me had I not graduated from NASCAR Tech.”

Renard is now manager, chassis pre-certification, for NASCAR, and loving it.

“I love the technical aspect of my job, especially getting to use the coordinate measuring machines,” said Renard.

Managing the inspection and certification of Sprint Cup and Nationwide chassis ahead of races, Renard has the daunting tasks of overseeing every facet of the build to ensure it’s within regulations. If things go wrong, she is responsible.

Even though she faces pressures of a demanding job, Renard wouldn’t have it any other way.

“I hope to be here for a long time and continue to grow within the company and industry.”

Like a lot of graduates of NASCAR Tech, Renard has never forgotten the opportunity the school in the heart of “Race City, USA” gave her, and would recommend NASCAR Tech to those who are interested in learning from the instructors and partnerships the school offers.

“I would definitely recommend NASCAR Tech to somebody who is interested,” said Renard. “They have the instructors and partnerships to help people get their foot in the door.”

For more information about NASCAR Tech, please visit: www.uti.edu/partners/nascar, and connect with us on Twitter and Facebook.