I had the opportunity to connect with Jaskirat Singh Marwah, a Mechanical Process Engineer at AKD whose journey through AKD’s Graduate Program to leading optimisation projects shows what can happen when curiosity meets commitment. Paired with his passion for sneakers and fitness, Jaskirat blends technical precision with personal purpose.
📍 Q: You’ve transitioned from being a Quality Control Officer to a Mechanical Process Engineer within AKD Softwoods, also going through the Graduate Program. Can you share some insights into how your previous roles prepared you for this current position? What were the most valuable skills you brought with you?
Jaskirat: “I started as a grad wanting to get into the workforce, and AKD’s program gave me that platform. The rotations helped me understand how different parts of the business connect. Working in quality gave me precision and structure, while production exposed me to real-world issues. That dual perspective helps in my current projects. I’ve always been fascinated by sensors and systems—that curiosity evolved into owning and leading optimisation projects.”
📍 Q: How do your personal interests like being a sneakerhead and a gym enthusiast influence your professional approach or creativity at work?
Jaskirat: “Ikigai is a concept I live by—finding joy in things that align with your passion, skill, and purpose. My interest in sneakers sparked early—it pushed me to research deeply and observe details. That mindset crosses over into how I approach engineering problems. As for the gym, it became my anchor during tough university days. I worked with a coach, built discipline, and transformed my mindset. That discipline helps me stay focused and resilient at work too.”
📍 Q: What advice would you give to mechanical engineering students who aspire to integrate their personal passions with their professional lives, much like you have?
Jaskirat: “Don’t follow the crowd—follow what energizes you. Try different things, explore projects, and see what clicks. Not everything will work out, and that’s okay. The goal is to find what you love and keep building on it. Stay curious and enjoy the process, not just the end result.”
📍 Q: One message for the world?
Jaskirat: “Be kind to everyone—not because it’s expected, but because it reflects who you are. That simple value can ripple far beyond what you imagine.”
✨ Key Takeaways:
Jaskirat’s path is a reminder that meaningful careers don’t just stem from skills—they’re shaped by curiosity, discipline, and staying true to who you are. Whether optimising systems or diving into sneaker culture, he shows that passion and profession can walk side by side.
