“NTTF focuses on practical, real-world application of concepts, giving you the exposure and skills to implement what you learn in actual industry settings,” says Mr. Vinod Parackal, Senior Engineering Manager at Dell EMC (NTTF alumnus).
Nettur Technical Training Foundation (NTTF) completes 65 years of empowering youth through skill-based education, marking a significant milestone in its journey of shaping future generations. Over six decades, NTTF has transformed and equipped students with industry-relevant skills and fostering success in various technical fields. As part of this celebration, we spoke with Mr. Vinod Parackal, an NTTF alumnus and Senior Engineering Manager at Dell EMC, who shares his inspiring journey from completing Electronics Engineering to achieving a leadership role in the tech industry. He highlights how NTTF’s holistic training, combining technical expertise with soft skills, helped him navigate challenges and build a successful career. In this interview, Mr. Vinod Parackal also offers valuable advice to aspiring professionals on how work-integrated learning programs can equip them to meet the demands of today’s dynamic industry.
Here are some of the highlights from the interview. To watch the full video, please visit our YouTube channel.
Q. Could you share your journey starting from your Diploma in Electronics, Electrical, and Electronics Engineering?”
A. When I graduated in 2002, the industry was at a turning point. IT was in its early stages in India, and cities like Chennai and Bangalore were just beginning to establish themselves as tech hubs. There were limited companies initially, but I noticed a growing trend of more organizations setting up operations and offering better opportunities and packages.
The industry demand for engineering degrees motivated me to pursue further studies. Recognizing this shift, I completed my B.Tech in Computer Science, followed by an M.S. in Software Systems from BITS Pilani, which helped me align with the evolving industry landscape.
Q. How did the structured training and holistic programs at NTTF help you overcome challenges in your professional life later on?
A. About 20 years ago, we were staying inside the campus. It was only about 3 batches of electronics students, and I believe the course name was CP-4, though I think it might still be the same. We were around 130 students on campus, and what was really special was the fact that the labs were open 24/7. We could walk into the lab at any time, conduct experiments, and truly immerse ourselves in the learning process. There were no restrictions; learning was very flexible, and you could push yourself as much as you wanted.
Another thing that stood out was the emphasis on practical-oriented learning. The learning model followed a 70-30 ratio, where 70% of the time was dedicated to practical sessions and 30% to theory learning. We would start the day with theory sessions, and then we would head into the labs to practice everything we learned in theory. This hands-on experience was something that made our learning process so effective.
I have never come across any other institution that gave us such a comprehensive, hands-on experience. I can say this with complete confidence because I have seen many peers enter the industry with just theoretical knowledge. In many cases, they had not even seen the electronic components they had learned about in theory sessions. Some of them were surprised when they first encountered a resistor or a capacitor in real-world applications, which was a huge contrast to what we experienced at NTTF.
The training we received here wasn’t just about electronics basics; it prepared us for the entire process. We learned how to design electronic circuits from scratch, how to convert those circuits into PCBs (printed circuit boards), manufacture those boards, select components, and then populate them onto the board to make it work. We even worked on mechanical designs for the project’s casing and learned how to turn everything into a working prototype.
This holistic approach to learning made us ready for the industry from the start. We were trained not just to understand electronics, but to create electronic solutions end-to-end, exactly what we would be doing in the industry. This is where NTTF stands apart from other colleges. NTTF taught me not just the theory, but how to practically apply it in the real world. That’s why I can confidently say that NTTF made me industry-ready.
At the time, I didn’t fully realize how different the experience was, but looking back, it’s clear that the training gave me the clarity and confidence I needed to enter the industry. I was ready to build electronic systems independently, right from the start.
And this is what made my transition into the professional world seamless. I joined a company called Deltech, and the moment I started, I was already tasked with designing electronic circuits, exactly the kind of work I had been trained for at NTTF.
Q. How does integrating 21st-century skills and holistic soft skills training into the program prepare students for the world of work?
A. Joining the program was a transformative experience, especially when it came to improving my communication skills. Coming from a village in Kerala, I had never spoken English on a daily basis before. The program encouraged me to use English regularly, which boosted my confidence and helped me become more comfortable speaking publicly in a language I wasn’t initially fluent in. This exposure to practical language use became a crucial aspect of my personal and professional growth, enabling me to communicate effectively and confidently in diverse settings.
In addition to language skills, the program introduced me to the HR principles that initially seemed like routine activities. Over time, I realized how deeply impactful these principles are for personal and professional development. They emphasize teamwork, building relationships, and fostering a positive attitude; all of which are essential for long-term success. These principles are not just about technical expertise but about shaping a well-rounded professional. The focus on creating meaningful connections, managing relationships, and building a personal brand is something that continues to guide me in my career today.
Also read: Emerging Tech Careers: NTTF’s Post Diploma in Embedded Systems and IoT
Q. What would you like to say to the younger generation considering technical education and training programs like those offered by NTTF to build a successful future?
A. I would say that NTTF provides a unique opportunity to become a hands-on engineer right from the start. NTTF focuses on practical, real-world application of concepts, giving you the exposure and skills to implement what you learn in actual industry settings.
Unlike traditional methods where theory is emphasized, NTTF’s approach ensures you get hands-on experience, preparing you to tackle real-world challenges. With access to the latest technologies and industry practices, NTTF equips you to build your career as a skilled engineer, not just someone who knows the theory.
Q. What advice would you give the youth about the importance of lifelong learning and skill development?
A. The industry landscape is changing rapidly, and it’s essential to stay adaptable. It can be overwhelming to choose the right path amid so many emerging technologies. The key is to observe what’s happening around you, understand the trends, and focus on learning new skills. Avoid getting caught up in FOMO and don’t chase trends without aligning them with your interests. Stay flexible and committed to upskilling, as complacency can lead to becoming obsolete. Being proactive in learning is crucial to staying relevant in this ever-evolving industry.
Confidence comes from clarity, not hype. If you have a clear understanding of what you want to achieve and what you’re capable of, that clarity becomes your confidence. Don’t focus on appearing confident to others and focus on being confident in yourself by knowing the requirements of the role or industry you’re pursuing. Talk to people in that field, understand what’s needed, and create a checklist to prepare. Once you’re clear on what it takes, confidence follows naturally. Ultimately, confidence is about being clear and prepared for the role, not just showing off to others.
