Williams Bolster Technical Team

After yet another disappointing campaign, Williams seem as determined as ever to turn their fortunes around. After making two technical signings before Christmas, the team have added three more engineers to their ever growing technical team. They seem to be conducting a Mercedes-esque overhaul and with Pat Symonds at the helm, Williams are a remarkably stronger outfit than they were just 12 months ago.

Taking Talent Away From Rivals

Formula One is a cut-throat business and every team is looking to establish all possible advantages. Williams have not only strengthened their technical team, but taken vital assets away from their rivals. The two aerodynamic staff signed prior to the Christmas break were from Red Bull and Lotus. Crucially, these personnel will have important knowledge gathered from working alongside Adrian Newey and James Allison - two of the most highly prized designers of their generation. 

The three latest recruits are Jakob Andreasen, who has been appointed as head of engineering operations. This is a job he is familiar with after his time at Force India. Meanwhile, former Mercedes engineer Craig Wilson will take up the role of head of vehicle dynamics; a promotion in terms of his duties while at Brackley. The third newcomer is Rod Nelson from Lotus and he will take on the important role of chief test ad support engineer - a crucial position, especially in regards to in-season development. His duties will be increased with the return of in-season testing. 

Pivotally, these engineers all have experience and knowledge which will help drive Williams forward. Not only have Williams bolstered their brainpower - They have reduced that of their competitors, which is just as powerful. 

The Williams Project

Williams will always attract the most talented technical brains. It is a prestigious team, full of history and success. While recent times have not been so fruitful, many paddock dwellers will dream of a return to glory for the team. A return to the magnificent 1990's, where the team claimed four titles in just six seasons. Pat Symonds has expressed his desire to be an influential part of the project - In reality, most personnel would be attracted by the proposition, including Red Bull team members.
Symonds stated, "Williams is determined to make strong improvements in our competitiveness over the coming seasons and these new appointments continue our aggressive approach in recruiting some of the sport's best talent." He concluded; "Our engineering team for the coming season is looking strong and I'm excited about what we can achieve moving forwards." Undoubtedly, Pat's presence at the team would also attract designers, given his career in Formula One, which has seen him guide Micheal Schumacher and Fernando Alonso to World Championship Titles.
Williams are rebuilding at Grove. After years of obscurity, the signings of Felipe Massa, Pat Symonds and a handful of key technical personnel is a sign that they can see some light at the end of the tunnel.