Choosing Chemical Engineering
Adhu's decision to pursue chemical engineering was a blend of interest and practicality. During his school years, he was fascinated by physics, maths, and chemistry. When it came time to choose a university degree, he sought a field that combined all three subjects. Chemical engineering emerged as the perfect fit, offering a comprehensive curriculum that aligned with his interests.
Entering the Field of Gas Analytics
Adhu's entry into gas analytics was somewhat chance. After completing his degree, he came across a job posting for a role in gas analytics. Although he had only a basic understanding of the field from his university studies, the job seemed challenging and relevant to his background. He decided to take the plunge, eager to learn more in this area that had only been briefly covered in his academic degree.
Joining ABB
Adhu joined ABB through their graduate program in September 2022. Prior to applying, he had only a vague idea of what ABB did. However, his research revealed the company's extensive involvement in various industries, which grew his interest.
First Impressions and Learning Curve
Adhu's initial experience at ABB was positive. The first few weeks were dedicated to getting up to speed with the company's products and services. He spent a significant amount of time watching informative videos and learning about ABB's offerings in more detail. Despite the huge amount of information, Adhu felt well-supported by his colleagues and manager, who guided him through the learning process.
Highlights of the Graduate Program
Reflecting on his time in the graduate program, Adhu highlighted two key experiences:
- Soft Skills Modules: Adhu appreciated the focus on personal development through soft skills training. These modules, conducted by experts in their field, provided an opportunity to step away from daily tasks and focus on self-improvement. The sessions helped him push his boundaries and develop essential skills for his career.
- Graduate Retreat: Another memorable experience was the graduate retreat. At the end of the program, Adhu and his fellow graduates spent five days in the Lake District, working on team-building skills and further developing their soft skills. This retreat offered a valuable break from day-to-day work, allowing participants to bond, grow together and focus on what is important for the next steps in their career journey.
Key Projects and Responsibilities
Adhu's role at ABB has involved working on significant projects from the start. He appreciated that graduates were not given menial tasks but were instead entrusted with real projects that had a tangible impact. One notable project involved extensive customer calls, technical reviews, and negotiation meetings, providing Adhu with invaluable experience in dealing with complex, high-stakes situations.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Adhu is excited about the limitless possibilities within ABB. The company's encouragement of internal mobility means he can explore various roles and divisions. While he is content in his current role, he is open to opportunities in sales or project management. The flexibility and support offered by ABB make it an ideal environment for his professional growth.
Advice for New Graduates
Adhu's advice to new graduates is to take things one step at a time. ABB is a large company with many processes and systems to learn. He emphasizes the importance of patience and gradual learning, reassuring new graduates that everything will come together with time. His own experience of navigating the complexities of his first job has taught him the value of persistence and continuous learning.
Conclusion
Adhu Shrikanth's journey into chemical engineering and gas analytics is a testament to the importance of following one's interests and being open to new challenges. His experiences at ABB have provided him with a solid foundation and valuable skills that will undoubtedly benefit his future career. As he continues to grow and learn, Adhu remains enthusiastic about the opportunities ahead.
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