Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) established as an autonomous body under the Department of Space, the Government of India realises the need for a high-quality workforce for the Indian Space Research Organization. Ashish Tomy, a recent graduate from IIST, shares his journey from a village in Kannur to working at Vikram Sarabhai Space Center (VSSC), Thiruvananthapuram.

What has been your journey up till joining IIST? Especially How you got interested in Aerospace? Your motivation towards Aerospace?

I did my schooling in a village in Kannur district of Kerala and one year of entrance coaching to crack the JEE exams before joining IIST. The school days were regular and cheerful. During my school days, I read Dr APJ Abdul Kalam's autobiography "Wings of fire". The book motivated me a lot. His life inspired me, and I became interested in ISRO. The success of ISRO through missions like Chandrayan and Mangalyaan during that period created a curiosity in me.

The journey at IIST. Were those expectations fulfilled?

IIST life was an awesome experience. I got to study aerospace subjects and develop skills in different fields of engineering as well. The professors were all excellent and also the college mates. I was also involved in extracurricular activities like Arts fest, Basketball etc. Aerospace mechanisms and space robotics were my favourite subjects at IIST.

How did you land at ISRO?

The Department of Space, Government of India, sponsors IIST. So each year ISRO absorbs students directly from IIST, that's how I joined VSSC, ISRO.

What are your job profile and daily schedule at work?

I am working as a Scientist/Engineer -‘SC' at Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, (VSSC) Thiruvananthapuram. I work in the Aerospace mechanisms group that is involved in developing mechanisms related to launch vehicles. My work schedule is from 9 to 5, Monday to Friday during regular days. When there are launch campaigns, there may be a need to do overtime as well.

A key takeaway from undergraduate life

Enjoy your learning and be sincere. Try to develop an interest in a few subjects and build expertise in that. Also, don't always spend time studying. There should be time for other games and relaxation as well. But when you are working or studying, give your hundred per cent into it. This way, you will succeed easily.

Ashish Tomy

A big thanks to Ashish to share his story with our fellow nerds.

Check out all the other Guest Articles in the Space Talks Series.