My name is Natthapat Wongcharoenyong and I am from Bangkok, Thailand. I know my name sounds insanely long for some of you, so my friends called me Natt, Natthapat, or Nathan.
What is your current profession?
I am currently employed as a Plant Engineer for Royal Dutch Shell Thailand, located in Bangkok, Thailand, back in my homeland.
Could you explain your job responsibilities?
As part of my responsibility, I am managing projects mainly for capital expenditure, from idea generation through to investment proposals and project execution.
What is your professional background?
I am a project engineer in sourcing and procurement.
What was your background before doing this Master’s?
I graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Engineering from Thailand before joining this Master's in Grenoble. As I was a normal student seeking more opportunities overseas before joining the Master's program, I went right away after my graduation to pursue my goal.
Why did you choose the Sustainable Industrial Engineering Master’s specifically and how did you hear about it?
I would say there are two main reasons I chose this Master’s. First, I personally believe that sustainability is a way forward for this world. Industrial engineers will make things better and more efficient, but how to make them greener is the key in coming years. Secondly, I would be located in the heart of Europe amid many beautiful cities. Additionally, we can expect a diverse and multicultural environment.
In your opinion, what are the main strengths of the Sustainable Industrial Engineering Master’s program?
It is the sustainability part embedded in the engineering subjects, together with the internship opportunity which is required by the Master’s. This is a great opportunity for us to work abroad in an international environment.
What was the most challenging course or project you had at Génie Industriel? Why?
They were all moderately challenging in terms of curriculum and subjects for study. As I had studied Industrial Engineering, I could use my fundamental knowledge for most courses and the additional sustainability points of view were added in classes, which was very interesting. If I had to say what was the most challenging, the answer would be “living in France without speaking French”, this was the most challenging thing I have encountered in Grenoble so far. Though it is the most challenging part, it also led me to the most memorable part as well.
What skills have you developed?
Besides numerous technical skills I have learned and now use during my daily work, I have developed many soft skills together with my classmates. These abilities include the fact that I am now living a life where I am eager to learn new things and improve myself at all times.
How did this Master’s prepare you for your career?
The Master’s has prepared me for both soft and hard skills. On one hand, I have gained technical knowledge to survive in work on a day-to-day basis. While on the other hand, being in a multicultural environment enhances your adaptation to others. I got an offer for an Advanced Master’s at CentraleSupelec after graduating in Grenoble. After I graduated, I got hired immediately for a graduate program at Shell.
What do you think about the way of life in Grenoble and its area?
It is the best place to be for students! Simply convenient to live in the heart of Europe, skiing in the morning, having lunch in Switzerland, or having dinner in Italy is also possible.
Do you have an anecdote about your experience of studying here?
I was able to participate in the Tournament in Management and Engineering Skills (TIMES) during my studies at Grenoble INP. This was organized by European Students of Industrial Engineering and Management (ESTIEM). We were a team of four, each of us coming from different backgrounds and passionate about how to improve things, but complementary to each other in a great way. We won and were selected to be a representative of our school to compete against other schools across Europe. We went to Germany for the next round but unfortunately, we didn’t get selected for the round after that. However, it was a memorable experience with the team, as well as being able to connect with a group of people who also share the same passion. Additionally, just being, and studying in Grenoble was an unforgettable experience and I would do it again if I could turn back time.
What advice would you give to a student from your country who would like to come and study here?
Go aboard and live your unforgettable moment in life. Get tons of knowledge and enjoy the beauty of France.
Natthapat Wongcharoenyong graduated in 2018.