Training is part of the DNA of Global Composites and after one of our educational activities at the Polytechnic University of Catalonia, we wanted to know what our students think about these days in which we share a session with the seed of great talents who are already making their way in the professional world with cutting-edge projects.

Today we share this interview with the person who helped us coordinate that training, Alba de la Hoz Martínez is a clear example of the bright future that awaits the sector. She is a double degree student in Mechanical Engineering and Materials Engineering, which allows her to acquire training in both the fundamental principles of mechanics and advanced aspects of materials and their applications. 

Alba de la Hoz is also the head of the Body and Composites department of a Formula Student team, a position that gives her the experience of applying her knowledge in a practical and dynamic environment. In her own words, ‘in this team, I have been able to receive technical training in the design, development and manufacture of composite components. In addition, this experience has taught me how to work in a team, manage projects and adapt to different challenges’.

As for her professional aspirations, Alba confesses that her main goal is to be able to develop a career in the automotive sector. Therefore, her main motivation for taking training courses such as those offered by Global Composites is to continue expanding her technical knowledge, especially in the area of composite materials and innovative solutions in this field. 

After the appropriate introductions, we leave you with the full interview so that you can get to know this young talent a little better and how Global is committed to the new generations.

Global Composites: Considering the wide range of training you have at your disposal and the many tasks you have on your plate, why did you decide to get involved in this course in the role of coordinator?

Alba de la Hoz Martínez: Because as the head of the Body and Composites department in our Formula Student team, I believe it is essential for our team members to further their education in composite materials, as they play an essential role in the design and development of high-performance components. In order to further innovate and optimise our designs, it is crucial to have a deeper understanding of manufacturing processes, material properties and applications.

Global Composites: What were your expectations before embarking on this training and how do you assess it now that you have completed it?

Alba de la Hoz Martínez: My expectations were mainly to broaden and deepen my knowledge of composite materials, in particular with regard to their properties, manufacturing processes and applications. I can now say that my expectations have been met and exceeded. 

I have acquired more advanced technical and practical knowledge about the different types of composite materials, such as carbon and glass fibres. I have also learned about the characterisation and analysis of these materials.

Global Composites: Do you think that this training follows an appropriate structure to make learning more comfortable?

Alba de la Hoz Martínez: The introduction that has been chosen for this training is essential. It is a theoretical part that explores the basics of composite materials, explaining what they are and how they are used in various practical applications. In this context, emphasis is placed on the different types of fibres, resins and other key materials used in the manufacture of composites, such as additives and curing agents. This provides a solid basis for understanding why certain materials are selected for specific applications, and how the properties that characterise composites, such as strength, lightness and durability, directly influence their performance and success in different industrial environments.

On the other hand, material properties, in particular the physical and mechanical aspects of fibres, are studied in depth. Key characteristics such as tensile strength, stiffness, flexibility and behaviour under various temperature and loading conditions are studied. This allows an understanding of how different materials respond to environmental stresses and how they behave in stress situations, such as fatigue or impact.

GC: What has been for you the most interesting part or what has attracted you the most attention in this training?

Alba: I would personally emphasise the theoretical explanation of the fundamental properties of composite materials, especially in terms of their structural behaviour and their interaction between the different phases, such as fibres and resins. 

GC: What resources do you think were key to enriching your learning in the training provided by the Global Composites team?

Alba: Firstly, the presentations and visual materials provided during the classes were fundamental to understanding complex concepts.

In addition, the recommended books and reading materials were essential resources for further study of the topics. The texts provided a more solid foundation in the history, properties and manufacturing techniques of composite materials.

Ultimately, the combination of visual presentations and specialised books were key to maximising the understanding and application of the concepts covered in the training.

GC: Although we already know that you have a solid foundation and we have witnessed your tenacity in learning, what competencies or skills have you acquired through this training?

Alba: If I had to summarise it briefly it would be: advanced technical knowledge of composite materials and the ability to critically analyse and solve problems. 

I now have a deeper understanding of the fundamental properties of composite materials, such as strength, stiffness, durability and behaviour under different loading conditions. This theoretical basis allows me to select and use suitable materials according to the specific requirements of each project.

In addition, I can now identify problems in the design or manufacture of composite components and propose solutions based on a stronger technical understanding. This skill is key to addressing the challenges that arise in projects.

GC: We believe that security is essential in any sector, but even more so in this one. Do you feel that when it comes to tackling new projects you are more capable and walk on solid ground?

Alba: Yes, without a doubt. This training has given me a deeper and more detailed understanding of composite materials and the associated manufacturing processes, which has given me the tools to make informed and informed decisions in my projects.

GC: Let’s dig a little deeper into what has been most useful for you. Can you give some concrete examples of how this training has helped you?

Alba: I could say that I have further developed my ability to select the most suitable materials according to the needs of the project, which is crucial in what I want my day-to-day life to be. After the training, I have gained a deeper understanding of how the different properties of materials can influence their performance. In addition, I have improved my understanding of the most suitable resins for each type of alloy, which has allowed me to optimise adhesion characteristics and resistance to extreme temperatures.

GC: Finally, imagine that whoever is reading this is still a little undecided about training, what advice would you give them if you had them in front of you?

Alba: Do it, don’t think twice. This type of training offers specialised technical knowledge that opens up many opportunities in key sectors. In addition, composite materials are increasingly used for their advantages in terms of lightness, strength and durability. 

El rol de Alba de la Hoz como Body and Composites en Formula Student

And as we couldn’t say goodbye to Alba without her telling us a little more about where she is currently putting her expertise and knowledge, we asked her a few questions about her current projects. And this is what she told us:

‘As the leader of the Body and Composites department in a Formula Student team, I control the design, development and manufacture of different components of our car, using composite materials such as carbon fibre. Our job is to ensure that these components are as light and strong as possible, optimising their performance. In turn, I oversee the manufacturing process and quality testing, ensuring that each component meets the standards required for racing. 

This project allows her to apply her knowledge of materials engineering and mechanics in a highly competitive and high-performance environment, while continuously learning and improving with the team. This is how she described it to us:

‘The Formula Student project provides me with several opportunities for growth, both professionally and personally, which will allow me to continue to develop in the engineering and automotive field by being involved in the design, manufacture and optimisation of high-performance components. As the team moves forward and as we face new challenges, I will have the opportunity to apply this knowledge to more complex situations.’

‘On the other hand, in a project like this we face new design, manufacturing and performance challenges every year. This fosters an innovation and problem-solving mindset, as we have to find creative solutions to technical, cost and time issues. As the project progresses, the ability to make quick and sound decisions, based on technical analysis and testing, will be crucial.’

We would like to thank Alba de la Hoz, and all the people who are part of the team and of this training, for trusting in Global Composites to continue making their present shine and ensuring the future of the sector. Her decision to get involved in a training course on composite materials has a direct and significant influence on the day-to-day running of projects such as e-Tech Racing. 

From Global Composites we go further, sponsoring and supporting projects such as e-Tech Racing, which aims to design a racing car in composites, allowing it to be presented in national and international competitions in which other European universities participate. In addition, we collaborate with this group of students by supplying the resins they need to manufacture the prototype that they will put on the track in each of their tests.