Industry–Academia Interaction Week is being celebrated at Punjab Engineering College (Deemed to be University), Chandigarh during September 15–19, 2025. The Department of Aerospace Engineering invited three distinguished experts from reputed organizations—Dr. S. C. Sharma (Former Scientist, ISRO), Mr. Deepak Lekhi (Scientist-F, RCMA–CEMILAC, DRDO), and Mr. Vikrant Satya (Former Scientist & Project Director, DRDO). The initiative aimed to provide students and faculty with valuable exposure to real-world challenges, professional experiences, and future opportunities in the aerospace and defence sector.
The week was inaugurated on September 15, 2025, with a lecture by Dr. S. C. Sharma, Former Scientist, ISRO & Former Head, Aerospace Engineering Department, PEC. Speaking on “A Look into the Development of Aircraft Technologies in the 20th Century”, he traced landmark developments in aerodynamics, propulsion, avionics, and materials, connecting the evolution of piston-engine aircraft to jet propulsion and space technologies. His address inspired students to link past innovations with future advancements in aerospace.
On September 16, 2025, the department hosted Mr. Deepak Lekhi, Scientist-F and Additional Regional Director, RCMA–CEMILAC, DRDO, Chandigarh. Delivering a talk on “Passion towards Profession”, he shared his professional journey from Taneja Aerospace & Aviation Ltd. to ADE and later RCMA–CEMILAC, where he played a critical role in certifying systems for IAF aircraft and helicopters. He emphasized the importance of dedication and perseverance, motivating students to transform passion into impactful careers.
The concluding session featured Mr. Vikrant Satya, Former Scientist & Project Director, DRDO, who spoke on “Indigenization and Self-Reliance in Aerospace & Defence”. An alumnus of PEC, he highlighted his contributions to scramjet propulsion, supersonic testing technologies, and the indigenous development of UAVs. His talk reinforced the importance of indigenization and the country’s pursuit of Atmanirbhar Bharat in aerospace and defence technologies.
At the close of the event, Dr. Rakesh Kumar, Head of the Aerospace Engineering Department, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all the speakers for their insightful contributions and presented them with mementos as a token of appreciation.
