Lewis Hamilton and IBM team up to accelerate AI education through new Mission 44 partnership
Photo credit: Ferrari
IBM has announced a multi-year collaboration with Mission 44, the charitable foundation founded by seven-time Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton. The initiative uses IBM’s free learning platform, SkillsBuild, to help students develop technical skills in AI, cloud computing, data analytics, and cybersecurity.
Mission 44 focuses on expanding opportunities for young people in education and technology. The collaboration will connect classroom learning with real-world applications through F1-themed activities designed to spark interest in STEM careers.
Hamilton says: “Talent is everywhere, but not everyone is afforded the opportunity for career growth. That’s why Mission 44 is teaming up with IBM SkillsBuild to unlock new learning pathways in technology for young people everywhere. We’re on a mission to ensure young people get the chance to thrive, so that everyone can fulfill their potential.”
AI workforce development forms central focus
The partnership supports IBM’s ongoing goal to equip 30 million people with digital and AI skills by 2030. It also reflects findings from the AI Workforce Consortium, which identified AI literacy as a key driver of economic growth across major global economies.
Mission 44 and IBM will run student activations at Formula 1 race locations, offering hands-on workshops that introduce AI and data-driven problem-solving. They will also produce educational content for year-round use on the SkillsBuild platform and distribute materials through Mission 44’s partner network.
Austin activation set to launch during Grand Prix weekend
The first event will took place at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, ahead of the 2025 Formula 1 United States Grand Prix. Students participated in a Design Your Own Pit Crew simulation and took part in a guided tour of the Scuderia Ferrari HP team garage, supported by local nonprofit Girlstart.
Justina Nixon-Saintil, Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility and Chief Impact Officer at IBM, says: “We’re investing in the technical skills that will shape future workforces, fuel open innovation and drive economic growth. The partnership between IBM SkillsBuild and Mission 44 brings together our collective strengths; expanding access to vital skills and tools, and enabling students to succeed in the AI economy.”
Jason Arthur, CEO at Mission 44, adds: “At Mission 44, we know collaboration is key to creating lasting impact, and our partnership with IBM is a powerful example of that. By uniting with IBM SkillsBuild we have the opportunity to drive meaningful impact for young people globally, raising aspirations and achievement, and unlocking access to exciting careers in STEM and motorsport.”
