Designing for Ferrari, the Italian automotive manufacturing company, is a dream on both a personal and professional level. In fact, some would claim that the next best thing to owning a Ferrari is designing one. And it's a dream that can come true with skill, hard work and a well-planned career strategy. Based in Maranello, Italy, Ferrari hires designers just as any automobile company. Because they serve a niche customer, though, they specifically look for designers who can style in their iconic tradition.

Enroll in and graduate from a competitive automotive design curriculum. Two well-known examples are the Transportation Design programs at the College for Creative Studies, in Detroit, Michigan, and the Art Center College of Design, in Pasadena, California.

Master ogee curves in clay as well as in CAD and 3-D software. The ogee is an S-shaped curve unique to Ferrari and other high-end sports cars. Learn about the manufacturing process involved with ogee automobile bodies, such as the difficulties in painting them.

Complete a design internship at an automobile manufacturing company. While this is not necessary to become a designer at Ferrari, it will provide experience for your resume. Also compete in sports-car design competitions.

Create a portfolio of your work and a professional resume. Use this dossier to apply to Ferrari through their website or through a certified recruiter. You might also make contact with the company by visiting an auto show or racing event.

Learn Italian while you are waiting to hear back. It will make life in Italy more enjoyable.