MSc Mechanical Engineering. Class 2022.
Lead Project Engineer at Airedale by Modine.
Your Career
I am currently working as a Lead Project Engineer in Airedale by Modine involved in the manufacture of critical cooling systems for primarily data centres. The company also serves industries from commercial buildings, health care, nuclear and process cooling, etc. Air-cooled chillers, CRAH/CRAC, Condensing units etc. are the major products the company manufactures. I have been working with Airedale for over two years now.
My typical day revolves around working on the design and modifications of our standard units and looking over production, performance monitoring and testing. Also, I give inputs on project feasibility, risk analysis, process optimisation and efficiency for our projects. Some of the projects I have been involved is with projects on London Underground, British Aerospace Engineering, Hinkley Point etc. Previously have over three years' experience in Air Conditioning design in my own country.
How would you summarise your Swansea University experience?
I had the best learning experience at Swansea University. The modules are comprehensive and encompass all areas of the field to give you all the rightful skills to be employable right after the course and prepare you as a complete engineer.
What are your top 3 favourite things about Swansea?
- The learning experience at Swansea University was amazing; all the course modules were industry-relevant and taught by professors who themselves are experts. The classroom experience was truly engaging with lots of group work and exciting assignments to make the learning even more memorable. My expectations exceeded what I had expected. Also, I was truly astounded to have seen renowned labs such as heat transfer lab, materials lab and computational lab.
- Having a walk at the beach right next to the Bay Campus during breaks was my favourite part. Spending time in the library and in the Student Union for some new activities was always exciting, have fond memories of taking part in decorating Christmas trees for holidays there. Christmas time with the campfire and enjoying the night lights were enjoyable too.
- I also had a bike that I would ride along the marina and Mumbles for short trips regularly enjoying the beautiful sea-facing views. I used to stay in the Uplands region and loved to go around Singleton Park and cafes and have fond memories.
Why did you choose to study your degree at Swansea?
I chose Swansea University primarily as it had the most diverse modules compared with other Universities that I had looked for. The whole curriculum I believe was the main reason that stood apart alongside equipping me with relevant engineering skills and up-to-date knowledge in the field. The captivating beauty of coastal region in Swansea is also another reason as I believe the environment is suitable to enhance my learning experience and even foster my creativity. So, I am still proud of my decision till date to study at Swansea.
Would you recommend Swansea University to someone thinking of going to University?
Please go for it and you will have one of the best times. Apart from the world-class quality education and relevant skills, you also get individual assistance where you can feel like a family. There is also a Student Union, different groups and clubs to meet people with similar interests, and employability mentors who themselves are in the same field that help with CV writing, 1:1 sessions to help with job search and other tips. You will have the best learning environment.
How did your degree prepare you for your career?
Before coming here, I did have basic knowledge of the field and a few years of industry experience. However, I was interested in acquiring more advanced courses to strengthen my knowledge base and learn about new technology like 3d printing, energy technology new-age materials etc. So, after the completion of my master's degree in Swansea, I genuinely felt confident enough to have updated knowledge in the area and to become a well-rounded Mechanical Engineer.
Looking back to how it helped my career and specifically in my current role, modules like project management and advanced fluid mechanics along with 3d printing have helped immensely in terms of strong foundational knowledge. The degree prepared not only to know about technology, but also how to think about solving engineering issues, and emerging research areas along with aspects on ethics, and environmental impact assessment.
What advice would you give to students who want to pursue your career?
To any student who wants to pursue Mechanical Engineering, it's an evergreen field. As probably the broadest engineering field, I would say to not tie yourself down to just one specific area especially when starting in your career but to try different sub-disciplines to have more skills and knowledge at early stages. As for the Heating and Cooling system industry, I would say with interest and passion it is rewarding as now with the emergence and demand of big data centres and AI, this area's future looks even more promising.
