UWTSD Motorsports Student Secures Prestigious Data Engineer Role with World Championship Team While Completing Degree
Motorcycle Engineering student Brody Crockford has secured a coveted position as Data Engineer for PHR Performance Triumph in the new World Sportbike class – all while completing the final year of his BEng degree. His appointment places him within a factory-supported team competing on the world stage alongside the World Superbike Championship.
20-year-old Brody’s journey into engineering began long before his university studies.
“I spent most of my childhood racing motorcycles and hoping to make it professionally,” he explained. “But I was always just as interested in how things worked, often helping my dad out in the garage. When it became clear I wasn’t going to make it as a professional racer, becoming an engineer was the natural progression. Once we saw the motorcycle engineering course, facilities, and possibilities on the open day here at UWTSD, the choice was obvious.”
Initially drawn to parts design, Brody, who is originally from Southampton, but now lives in Swansea, soon discovered a passion for the deeper technical aspects of performance.
“When I started the degree, I wanted to go into parts design, but learning more about dynamics and the effect of the rider, especially given my racing background, really grabbed my attention. That led me down a completely different path, focusing on data analysis, computer modelling, and simulation. The course has given me a strong grounding in those areas and the confidence to apply them in a racing environment.”
Alongside his studies, Brody has already gained extensive hands-on experience within professional racing paddocks. He first joined Moto Rapido Ducati in the British Superbike & Supersport championships as a Performance Engineer before progressing to Crew Chief in the National Sportbike Championship, where he supported riders fighting for the title.
“These have been amazing learning experiences and have really accelerated my development as an engineer,” he said.
His latest appointment with PHR Performance Triumph marks a significant step into the international arena.
“Making the step into a factory-supported world championship team is incredible, but it’s also a huge challenge,” Brody added. “I will be working with two highly competitive riders, looking after their data analysis, bike setup and electronics strategies – all while completing my final year of my BEng degree.”
Senior lecturer Owen Williams said: “Brody’s success reflects both his personal determination and the strength of UWTSD’s Motorcycle Engineering programme, which continues to produce graduates who progress into advanced roles within global motorsport.
“We would like to congratulate Brody on this outstanding achievement and look forward to supporting him as he balances world-level engineering responsibilities with his final year of academic study.”
Pic caption : Brody debriefing with UWTSD rider Ian Henshaw at a private test at Pembrey Circuit.
Further Information
Rebecca Davies
Executive Press and Media Relations Officer
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: rebecca.davies@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 07384 467071