Honours from the Institution of Engineering and Technology as the Youngest IET-registered Chartered Engineer in Sri Lanka
Ref: IET information was sent on dated 22 Feb 2023 by Karen Allen MInstLM - Professional Registration Team Manager, Registration & Standards, Institution of Engineering and Technology, United Kingdom
In the realm of engineering, where excellence is the benchmark, Thathsara Nanayakkara stands out as a shining example of determination and achievement. At the age of 30, he earned the distinguished title of the youngest IET Registered Chartered Engineer in Sri Lanka, marking a significant milestone in his already illustrious career.
Thathsara embarked on his engineering journey at the General Sir John Kothelawala Defence University, where he pursued a 4-year Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Hons) degree, laying a strong foundation for his future endeavors.
As an Officer Commanding (OC) with the rank of Major at an Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Workshop in the Sri Lanka Army, Thathsara oversees repairs, maintenance, inspections, condemnations, and modifications of the Army's electrical, electronic, and mechanical engineering equipment. His commitment to excellence was evident during his university years, where he excelled in electrical and electronic engineering.
Journey to Becoming a Chartered Engineer
Thathsara's path to becoming a Chartered Engineer (CEng) began with the completion of his engineering degree, followed by postgraduate courses that enriched his knowledge and expertise. His professional experience includes working on diverse and impactful projects such as the Energy Conserving Smart Control System for Street Lighting in Sri Lanka and the Object Tracking Combat FPV Drone for Short Range Military Operations. These projects showcased his technical prowess and contributed to technological advancements in Sri Lanka.
The journey to CEng was not without challenges. Thathsara's hands-on experience, leadership roles in technical teams, effective communication, coordination skills, and unwavering commitment to excellence prepared him for the rigorous process, ultimately leading to his coveted Chartered Engineer status.
Role of the Institution of Engineering and Technology
Thathsara's association with the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) played a pivotal role in his success. As an active member, he gained valuable insights from the IET website, articles, and collaboration with senior IET members in Sri Lanka. His involvement extended beyond his achievements, as he actively engaged in mentoring, volunteering, and advising within the engineering community.
Mentorship and Community Involvement
As the youngest IET Professional Registration Advisor (IPRA) in Sri Lanka, Thathsara has assisted numerous young professionals in their pursuit of professional registration. His commitment to mentorship includes conducting sessions at prestigious universities in Sri Lanka, contributing to the development of the next generation of engineers.
For those embarking on the professional registration process, Thathsara emphasizes the importance of membership in professional engineering institutions like the IET. He advises aspiring engineers to seek guidance from mentors, thoroughly understand the UK-SPEC, and showcase their learning from engineering projects as evidence of competence.
Reference:
1. Institution of Engineering and Technology UK article and Video about the achievement.
2. Engineering Council UK article about the achievements.
3. Institution of Engineering and Technology UK LinkedIn post about the achievement
4. Engineering Council UK LinkedIn post about the achievement
5. Engineering Council UK LinkedIn post 2 about the achievement