(1989 - MTech - Mechanical Engineering) & (2006 - Ph.D - Mechanical Engineering) Director @ ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC), ISRO, Mahendragiri, Nagercoil, India
Dr. P.V. Venkitakrishnan graduated with a Masters and Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from IIT Madras in 1989 and 2006, respectively. He obtained his B.Tech. from Cochin University in 1983. He also holds an MBA & Post-Graduate Diploma in Production Management to his credit from Annamalai University. Currently, he is the Director of ISRO Propulsion Complex, ISRO – Mahendragiri. He started his career as Grade Scientist in 1983 in VSSC. Over the course of his career, he has contributed significantly in aerospace-related manufacturing and materials, as well as in infrastructure development. Previously, he was Deputy Director, LPSC during 2010 to 2015, and Deputy Project Director, GSLV Mk-III from 2002 to 2010. He held the post of Deputy Director, VSSC before taking over as Director, IPRC.
Dr. Venkitakrishnan is also the current National President of the Society of Aerospace Manufacturing Engineers (SAME). He was instrumental in setting up the HAL Aerospace Division in the development phase of PSLV Programme, and has contributed significantly in the developmental phase of hardware for ASLV, PSLV, GSLV Mk-II and Mk-III. He was also instrumental in initiating the establishment of the Integrated Cryo-Engine Manufacturing Facility (ICMF) at HAL, Bangalore, and in the introduction of latest technologies and practices. Under his able leadership, the Cryogenic Engines for GSLV Mk-2 and GSLV Mk-3 were developed and realized. The LAM engine for the prestigious Mangalyaan was also realised and tested under his leadership. The efforts taken by him for the indigenisation of aerospace metallic materials is noteworthy. He has various affiliations with professional bodies, including as Fellow of Institute of Engineers (India) and Fellow of Indian Institute of Metals.
Dr. Venkitakrishnan is a recipient of ISRO’s individual Merit Award in 2013, Team Leader – ISRO Team Excellence Award for the years 2011 and 2015, and the ANWESHAK Award from SAME in 2009. He has numerous publications in national and international journals. He is an excellent leader and team builder with effective communication, motivational and administrative skills.
For his exemplary contributions to India’s Space Program, IIT Madras and its alumni are proud to confer this award upon Dr. P.V. Venkitakrishnan.
