Chellammal Nandhini Aruna

My Graduate Story

My name is Chellammal Nandhini and I'm currently working as a Lab Compliance Supervisor at TIMET, a leading global manufacturer of titanium products used in aerospace sector.

My role focuses on ensuring that our laboratory processes comply with industry standards like ASTM, BS EN, NADCAP, AS9100, UKAS and internal quality systems. I'm responsible for overseeing instrument calibration and validation, maintaining SOPs and quality documentation, and supporting internal and external audits. I also work on process improvements and support cross-functional teams to ensure data integrity and regulatory compliance.

This role allows me to apply my materials science background while contributing to the quality and reliability of aerospace-grade titanium products.

A Day in my Life

A typical day in my role as a Lab Compliance Supervisor at TIMET involves a mix of routine compliance checks, documentation work, and team coordination. I usually start the day by reviewing lab schedules and checking for any pending audits works or documentation updates. I ensure all instruments are calibrated and validated according to schedule, and I verify that lab staff are following SOPs during testing.

A significant part of my day is spent maintaining and updating quality documentation, such as audit trails, deviation reports, and equipment logs to stay aligned with NADCAP and UKAS standards. I also coordinate with customer audits like Rolls Royce, Saffron, GE and Pratt and Whitney

When audits are approaching, my focus shifts more towards audit preparation, gap analysis, and staff training. I also contribute to continuous improvement techniques, like updating procedures or streamlining compliance checks.

It's a dynamic role that balances technical understanding with quality and regulatory oversight. My technical side involves chemical testings like ICP, XRF and combustion analysis. Mechanical testings involve Tensile testing, creep and hardness testings etc. I am also involved in looking at the compliance side of metallurgical analysis like micro and macro analysis and the grain size measurement.

My Journey

The journey to getting a job after graduation was a mix of learning, persistence, and adapting to the job market. I completed my undergraduate degree in Materials Science and later pursued a Master's in Engineering Management, which gave me both technical and managerial skills. After my studies, I was very clear that I wanted to work in a role that combined quality, compliance, and continuous improvement within a technical industry like aerospace or advanced manufacturing.

Being an international graduate in the UK, I knew I had to be strategic. I spent time researching companies that were open to skilled worker sponsorship and aligned with my career goals. I tailored my CV and cover letters, highlighted my knowledge in Lean Six Sigma, ISO standards, and materials testing, and applied consistently.

After a few months of job hunting and interviews, I secured a role as a Lab Compliance Supervisor at TIMET, a global leader in titanium products. It was a rewarding moment because the role allows me to apply both my technical foundation in materials science and the process-oriented skills from my master's degree. The experience taught me a lot about staying focused, being proactive, and choosing a role that offers real career growth.

My Birmingham Experience

My Engineering Management degree at the University of Birmingham played a key role in shaping my career readiness. It gave me a solid foundation in both technical and managerial aspects — from project management and operations strategy to quality systems and process improvement. Courses like supply chain management, lean operations, and risk assessment were especially valuable and directly applicable to my current role in compliance and quality within the aerospace industry.

Beyond academics, the programme helped me develop soft skills like critical thinking, leadership, and stakeholder communication — which are crucial when working across teams or preparing for audits. The exposure to real-world case studies, group projects, and industry-focused assignments helped bridge the gap between theory and practice, making it easier for me to step into an industrial role with confidence. My dissertation was also related to aerospace sector but helped me a lot in career.

Overall, it didn't just help me land a job — it helped me grow into a professional mindset that focuses on continuous improvement, strategic thinking, and cross-functional collaboration.

Birmingham's Impact

One of the best things about the Engineering Management course at the University of Birmingham was how well it balanced technical depth with business and leadership skills. The modules were very relevant to real-world industry challenges — like operations management, quality systems, and project planning — which gave me a broader view of how engineering fits into the bigger picture of a business.

Another highlight was the access to excellent facilities and resources. From advanced engineering labs to collaborative study spaces, everything was designed to support hands-on learning. The professors were not only knowledgeable but also approachable — they really encouraged discussion, critical thinking, and personal growth.

Group projects and case studies also stood out. Working with students from different engineering backgrounds helped me develop teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills — all of which are directly useful in the workplace.

I also used the Career Network's services to check my resume. They also gave me a lot of suggestions for improvement.

My Achievements

One of my biggest achievements during the course was my dissertation. It gave me the opportunity to apply both my technical and managerial knowledge to a real-world problem. I worked on non-conventional machining of SiC-based matrix composites which involved a lot of independent research, data analysis, and critical thinking. Successfully completing it not only strengthened my understanding of engineering and business integration but also boosted my confidence in handling complex projects under time pressure.

In addition to that, I consider the way I adapted to the UK academic system and managed multiple deadlines while staying consistent with my performance to be a personal achievement. It was a challenging yet rewarding journey that really helped me grow professionally and personally.

Advice for Students

The University of Birmingham is truly one of the best places to learn and grow. For those graduating today, I'd say take full advantage of everything you've experienced — the world-class engineering facilities, the academic support, and the strong foundation you've built. The professors here are incredibly supportive and genuinely want to see you succeed, both academically and professionally.

As you step into your career, remember that the skills and mindset you've gained at UoB — critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration — will serve you well. Be confident, stay curious, and keep learning. Your journey is just beginning, and you're stepping out with a strong head start.