Pimonpan Phurappa
Current Employer/Organisation Name
University of Exeter and Inyanga Maritime Ltd
What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?
I have been working as the Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) Associate working with the University of Exeter and Inyanga Maritime Ltd in bridging the knowledge gap for the company. My work focuses the control system design for tidal energy converter devices.
Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?
I have the strong interest in energy conversion and control system during the final 2 years of my study. The KTP opportunity came in the right time when I was finishing my Master degree which is why I decided to apply. I enjoy learning about the existing system and look into how I can improve or adapt the system to suit what company is looking for and what can be deployed in the real world.
Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?
– Student Ambassador (2018-2019)
– Library Champion of Renewable Energy Course, Cornwall campus (September 2018 – June 2019)
– Societies Officer of the Student Leadership team of Falmouth and Exeter Student’s Union. (Elected but withdrawn)
– President of Engineers Without Borders FXU (May 2018 – June 2019)
– Publicity Officer of Mary’s Meal at FXU (May 2018 – June 2019)
– Secretary of Engineers Without Borders FXU (Sep 2017 – May 2018)
– General Committee of ‘Renewable Energy Society FXU’ (Sep 2017 – July 2018)
– Member of Mary’s Meal FXU (Sep 2017 – June 2020)
– Member of Badminton society (Sep 2016 – July 2016).
Were you part of the Exeter Student Ambassador Scheme at any point during your studies?
Yes.
What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?
I enjoyed the practical workshops and ability to access the facility provided by the Renewable Energy Group the most since this helps me enhance my practical skills and apply the knowledge I had learnt from the course. My biggest highlight was when I created the green energy doll house which demonstrates how some renewable technologies work. This doll house was used in many exhibition and STEM events by the Renewable Energy Group and the CEMPs of the University of Exeter, Penryn campus.
What did you enjoy most about studying here?
I had learnt both theoretical and practical knowledge from the course which allows me to apply the theory to implement the real world solutions. This fact really is my most favourite thing about the Renewable Energy Engineering course.
Why did you choose to study at Exeter?
I have been interested in renewable and low carbon energy sources and I heard of the Renewable Energy course provided by the University of Exeter which has interesting course structure and wide range of interesting research topics.
What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?
Technical skills; MATLAB simulink, Solidworks, Ansys, Python or other software programming. Interpersonal skills, Team working, Communication, Time Management.
What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?
Don’t be afraid to ask, if unsure. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes but do learn from them. Technical skills may be crucial but interpersonal skills would also support your career life.
What are your plans for the future?
My current KTP associate position will conclude in July 2022 and I am hoping to continue working under a full time contract as a junior control engineer with Inyanga Maritime Ltd. I am also applying for an EngD opportunity with the IDCore and may also submit my application to EPSRC DTP Engineering.
