“Graduates often express that our programs provide what they missed in their previous education or workplaces, boosting their confidence and competence. These need-based programs not only prepare them for the industry but also empower some to become entrepreneurs,” says Mr. Neelakanteshwaraswamy Bhavikatti, Vice Principal at the School of Postgraduate Studies, NTTF.
To learn more about the School of Postgraduate Studies, its industry-focused programs, industry requirements, and the benefits of enrolling in PG programs for career acceleration, we spoke with Mr. Neelakanteshwaraswamy Bhavikatti, Vice Principal at the School of Postgraduate Studies, NTTF.
Below are a few excerpts from our conversation. You can watch the full video on our YouTube channel.
Q: Can you share how the School of Postgraduate Studies at NTTF offers industry-focused programs for engineering graduates and professionals seeking to upskill?
A: Recognizing the importance of providing advanced technical education beyond the core mechanical engineering background, NTTF has introduced postgraduate training programs. These programs are designed to equip students with the skills necessary for the manufacturing and product design industries, which play a pivotal role in producing a wide range of products used globally. Over the past four decades, NTTF has been dedicated to serving the industry by customizing programs to meet its specific needs. Graduates from these programs contribute to the manufacturing and product design sectors, thereby enhancing the quality of life and economic well-being of families while meeting the skill development requirements of the industry.
Q: How do the PG courses prepare students for managerial and leadership roles, and can you share examples of their success in meeting industry requirements, both technical and non-technical?
A: The curriculum blends 40% theory with 60% design-related assignments, including industry visits and tech talks by experts. In areas like tool design and manufacturing, graduates have ascended to senior positions at industry leaders like Volvo Engineering, Magna International, and TE Connectivity. These alumni provide insights to improve our curriculum. Product design and new product development have benefited from the rapid innovation of product lifecycle management and software tools. Our students excel in creativity and shortening time-to-market, setting them apart. Quality engineering and management are crucial in maintaining product standards. For example, TE Connectivity produces billions of parts with minimal defects. We teach Six Sigma quality, total quality management, and lean manufacturing concepts to enhance industry competitiveness. For those seeking shorter programs, we offer one-year options in quality and design. For those who can commit to two years, the post-graduate degree in tool engineering provides advanced skills in tool and die making, enabling graduates to excel in the industry and meet its evolving demands.
Q: Please tell us about your students, their post-graduation experiences, and any alumni who have become entrepreneurs.
A: Our alumni are spread across India and the world, and their positive experiences have led to a strong response from new students. Industry endorsement and recommendations have played a significant role in attracting students to our programs. We are committed to helping students secure their futures and achieve a strong return on investment, offering valuable skill sets for becoming industry leaders or entrepreneurs. It’s worth noting that our approach is cost-effective compared to studying abroad, allowing students to gain the skills needed to create value and generate employment. In areas like Pune, Chennai, and China, over 500,000 entrepreneurs have emerged from our programs, contributing to job creation and economic growth.
Q: Could you elaborate on how engineers with some years of work experience benefit from enrolling in your PG programs and how it accelerates their career growth and helps them achieve their career aspirations?
A: The PG programs cater to both freshers and those already in the workforce, including various engineering and architecture disciplines. They bridge the gap in core mechanical engineering, a vital industry component often underrepresented in standard engineering education. This upgrade is essential for fresh graduates looking to enter the workforce and for professionals aiming for career advancement.
Q: How have your PG programs built strong industry collaborations, and could you provide an example of this partnership at the PG level?
A: In the two-year program, during the third semester, industry representatives conduct on-campus interviews and select students. These selected students then embark on internships, working on projects related to their coursework. This internship experience familiarizes them with the industry environment, teamwork, customer needs, and meeting deadlines and cost specifications. At the end of their internships, students present their work to examiners and have the opportunity to secure regular employment with the same company. Companies like Schneider Electric, TE Connectivity, and Magna International have been impressed by our students, and the students themselves are well-adjusted to these companies’ cultures, often choosing to continue working with them. This approach is aimed at making students not just employable but also capable of providing employment, which is a significant challenge in the modern job market. We strive to ensure that our students are industry-ready, and in many cases, they secure employment offers before completing the program, providing the job security that many parents seek for their children.
Also read: 3 Ways NTTF Pune Centre is Transforming Technical Training with Indo-Swiss Collaboration
Q: Is there anything else you wish to share with our audience?
A: PG programs ensure a smooth transition to the industry, offering a cost-effective solution. The industry demand is substantial, creating opportunities for students in fields like automotive components, aviation, and electric vehicles. Furthermore, the industry demand is substantial, with the automotive components industry alone projecting a growth of 5.6 lakh crore. This robust demand extends to aviation and electric vehicles, making it an opportune time for students to enter these industries. The goal of reaching a $5 trillion economy by 2030 and a $2 trillion export target emphasizes the importance of skilled talent in India, making our role as educators and higher education institutions crucial in meeting these demands. As industries relocate to India, we are poised to become job creators for the world, reversing the brain drain trend as international professionals seek opportunities in India.
