Meet San; Research Engineer Intern at Quickstep & PhD student at RMIT University

A/AA TRAILBLAZER SERIES:
MEET SAN; RESEARCH ENGINEER INTERN AT QUICKSTEP & PHD STUDENT AT RMIT UNIVERSITY

Manatsawee Limprapuwiwattana (San) is a trailblazer. His passion towards aviation and aerospace started young, with the influence from his father. Years later, he is now working hard towards his goal in engineering while interning with Quickstep and finishing his PhD degree at RMIT University. We talked to San about his insights on the important factors on how the industry and young professional grow together.

A/AA: What is your current role and what do you do in a day?

San: My current role is a Research Engineer Intern at Quickstep and a PhD student at RMIT University. As a research student and intern, I conduct research within the field of composite materials. My daily tasks vary widely. It includes encompassing activities such as conducting experiments in the laboratory, analysing and presenting findings to supervisors, engaging in extensive writing for my thesis and academic publications, and lastly, exploring and eating some nice food!

A/AA: What expectations did you have going into the industry? Were they met? How were they different?

San: Before entering the industry, I envisioned a fast-paced working environment where practical solutions were paramount for addressing real-world challenges. And yes, it was like what I had imagined but with a much more teamworking and supportive working environment, which is truly gratifying. One notable difference I observed transitioning into the industry is the emphasis placed on non-technical skills and creative thinking to navigate complex problems effectively in the real world.

A/AA: What are the challenges and opportunities young professionals have solutions for that the current generation would benefit from? How can the industry better work with their lived experience and the new ideas coming into the industry?

San: I think young professionals now have access to plentiful and amazing learning opportunities. I believe that having a strong passion for what you do and the ability to quickly learn new things are skills that hugely benefit the industry. The industry should provide more opportunities and a supportive environment for the younger generation, so they can comfortably express their ideas and demonstrate their capabilities. This will present a wonderful learning opportunity for both the industry and the younger generation.

A/AA: What experience did you have coming through the pipeline to get into your current role today? How did you start in the industry?

San: During my undergraduate studies, I interned with Thai Airways Technical Department. From this internship, I had the opportunity to learn extensively about aircraft maintenance. My tasks included washing aircrafts, engines and blades, as well as their maintenance and inspection, aircraft tyres preparation and replacement, in-flight entertainment systems maintenance, among others. Prior to joining Quickstep as a part of my current and first role in research, I had the opportunity last year to attend and present at the Carbon Fibre Future Conference at Deakin University, which included a tour of the Geelong Manufacturing precinct. I visited Quickstep at the tour and was immediately drawn to the exciting opportunities for learning and applying my knowledge. When the opportunity to join Quickstep arose, I promptly seized it.

A/AA: What experiences have you had outside of the sector that have helped you work within it?

San: I have worked in various industries and volunteered with several organisations. I am currently serving as a duty manager at Kingston City Council. This diverse experience has significantly enhanced my interpersonal skills, particularly in communication and problem-solving. These skills are valuable in my role as an engineer, where I collaborate with individuals from diverse backgrounds across different organisations. I also find motivation and inspiration to progress by having a strong relationship with my colleagues, discussing my research with individuals outside of my field.

A/AA: When did you first realise you wanted to work in STEM/Aviation? What were the influences that helped you realise?

San: I have always wanted to work in STEM/Aviation for as long as I can remember. My dad worked as a flight attendant for more than 35 years before retirement and is also an aviation enthusiast. I vividly recall our car rides to school, during which my dad would passionately discuss airplanes, lift, drag, and other aircraft-related topics. His enthusiasm ignited my passion for aviation and aerospace. As I grew older, I had more opportunities to interact with people in the field which solidify my desire to pursue a career in aviation and aerospace.

A/AA: What support networks have enabled you to continue working towards your goals and how can the industry better support this?

San: I have been incredibly fortunate to have met numerous supportive individuals, including friends from my cohorts, PhD colleagues, mentors, and people I have connected with through networking (especially through A/AA!). Consistently receiving support and exchanging ideas with these individuals has been truly wonderful and invaluable for my growth as a young professional.

A/AA: What do you think is the single most important transferrable skill that you have developed, whether at work or in your personal life, that you know you can bring into any role you step into?

San: I strongly believe that adaptability and resilience are among the most essential transferable skills, applicable both in workplace and in personal life. In our constantly changing world, our capacity to adjust to new environments and circumstances is paramount. Often, we encounter challenges for which there are no ready-made solutions, prompting us to ask ourselves, 'How do we tackle this?' While we may not always have control over the situations we face, we do have control over our responses and approaches. To me, this ability to adapt and persevere is extremely important.

A/AA: If you could go back and give yourself advice at any point in your career, what would it be?

San: Keep trying and aiming for what you want. The right opportunity will come at the right time, along the journey toward your goals is filled with valuable lessons that contribute to personal growth and development.

A/AA: Is there a piece of advice you had been given that has helped you become the professional you are today?

San: I think one of the best advice I have ever received is to be a good listener and stay optimistic. I believe there are numerous opportunities to learn in every situation, technical or not. My mind is always blown when I realise I am learning from unexpected situations and contexts. I believe maintaining this attitude helps me become a better person every day, which is an important aspect of life as we move forward to an exciting future!