Dr. S. Kavitha is a Professor and the Head of the Department of Petrochemical Technology at JCT College of Engineering and Technology. She is a seasoned professional with 17 years of expertise and holds a PhD in Chemical Engineering from Annamalai University. Dr. Kavitha’s leadership is based on a great deal of scholarly and research experience. Her research interests include nanotechnology, bioprocess engineering, and chemical reaction kinetics.

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Can you provide an overview of the Department of Petrochemical Engineering at JCT College of Engineering and Technology? What makes it stand out from similar programs at other institutions?

For students to get the skills and knowledge needed in the petrochemical sector, the curriculum strongly emphasises both the academic and practical components of the topic. A significant edge for students in the job market is provided by JCT College's well respected industry integration and hands-on learning opportunities. Our college stands out in general because of its strong industry linkages, cutting-edge facilities, knowledgeable staff, and a program designed to meet the changing needs of the petrochemical sector.

What research opportunities are available to students within the Department of Petrochemical Engineering? How are students encouraged to participate in these research projects?

The college and leading petrochemical firms collaborate on industry-initiated projects and industry-relevant research projects. We foster engagement in collaborative research projects with other departments and promote faculty-led studies on a range of issues. Paying attention to new developments in industrial waste management, simulation and modelling, and renewable energy is vital. We also have research internships with government and non-government petrochemical industries, which offer exposure to research and industrial training expertise.

What partnerships or collaborations does the department have with industry leaders? How do these partnerships benefit the students and the department?

We have collaborations with leading petrochemical companies like Dow Chemicals, SPIC, Shell, Chemsys, Petrocon, CIPET, FACT, TAC, Hindustan Petroleum, Bharat Petroleum, Reliance Industries, and Indian Oil Corporation, Tagros, TANFAC. These are just a few of the companies that the Department of Petrochemical Engineering at JCT College has forged important industry partnerships with. These partnerships cover a range of activities, including cooperative research projects, industrial training courses, and internships, which give students industrial experience and knowledge.

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What kind of support does the department offer to students, both academically and professionally? Are there mentorship programs, career counseling, or internship opportunities available?

The department of petrochemical engineering guides our students by organising conferences, seminars, lecture series and alumni series. These help students achieve good academic performance by getting real-life industry advice. Our Career Development Centre helps students perfect their resume writing, and interview process, and seek out the right career opportunities. Students can also gain practical experience in industry operations through arranged industrial visits and internships in petrochemical industries.

What are the future plans for the Department of Petrochemical Engineering? Are there any new initiatives or programs that prospective students should be excited about?

With an emphasis on renewable energy, and environmental impact assessment, the university intends to include new initiatives like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data sciences in petrochemical operations. With increasing financing for research from government agencies our research centres will concentrate on innovative materials, process optimisation, and environmental sustainability. We are looking into promoting research, internships, job placements, and collaborative research projects. We also provide more programmes for mentorship by alumni and business professionals who will provide a range of career advice.

How does the Department of Petrochemical Engineering collaborate with other departments at JCT College of Engineering and Technology to provide a well-rounded education to its students?

Through the integration of petrochemical engineering with other disciplines and elective courses, students can specialise in mechanical, electrical, or environmental engineering. The principles of several engineering specialisations, including process control, material science, and thermodynamics, are included in an integrated curriculum. Advanced technical skills, entrepreneurship, and project management are also covered in collaborative training programmes with other departments.