Dr Sreeja S, Associate Professor, Dept of Electrical Engineering, College of Engineering, Trivandrum.
 

Section 1: Personal Journey and Leadership

Your teaching journey spans over 17 years, focusing on aerospace guidance and control systems. What inspired you to specialise in this niche and challenging field?

My journey in teaching aerospace guidance and control systems has been driven by a deep passion for innovation and a desire to contribute to the advancement of aerospace technology.

From a young age, I was captivated by the mechanics of flight and the complexities involved in guiding and controlling aerospace vehicles. This fascination led me to pursue a career in aerospace engineering. During my B. Tech studies in College of Engineering Trivandrum, the professor who taught me Control systems has inspired me to the specified application area such as aerospace guidance and control where we can apply the academic knowledge. I wanted to be part of a field that has such a significant impact on society and contributes to technological progress. The field of guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) is constantly evolving, with new challenges and advancements emerging regularly. This dynamic nature of the field keeps me engaged and motivated to stay at the forefront of research and innovation. Over the years, I have found great fulfillment in mentoring and teaching the next generation of aerospace engineers. Sharing my knowledge and experiences with students and seeing them succeed in their careers has been incredibly rewarding. Working in GNC systems has allowed me to collaborate with experts from various disciplines, including computer science, robotics, and artificial intelligence. These interdisciplinary collaborations have enriched my understanding and opened up new avenues for research and development.

As an educator at the College of Engineering Trivandrum, how do you balance theoretical teaching with practical exposure, particularly for aerospace and robotics?

Balancing theoretical teaching with practical exposure is crucial for a comprehensive education, especially in fields like aerospace and robotics. I have been part of curriculum design to include both theoretical concepts and practical applications. For example, while teaching control systems, I ensure that students understand the underlying mathematical principles and also get hands-on experience with control system design and implementation.

I incorporate regular laboratory sessions where students can apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. These sessions involve working with robotics kits, flight simulators, and other relevant equipment to reinforce learning. I encourage students to undertake projects that require them to solve real-world problems. These projects often involve designing, building, and testing aerospace and robotic systems, providing valuable practical experience. I collaborate with industry partners to provide students with exposure to current technologies and practices. This includes invited lectures, internships, and industry-sponsored projects that give students insights into the professional world. I involve students in research projects that explore cutting-edge technologies in aerospace and robotics. This not only enhances their practical skills but also fosters a deeper understanding of theoretical concepts. I organise workshops and seminars on specialised topics, inviting experts from academia and industry to share their knowledge and experiences. These events provide students with additional learning opportunities beyond the classroom.