Quickstep is Australia’s largest independent aerospace engineering and manufacturing company, providing the highest accreditation and global standards in Defence, UAV, Space, GWEO and Clean-Tech and advanced composite solutions to make aerospace products lighter, safer, stronger, cost-efficient and sustainable.
Manatsawee (San) Limprapuwiwattana is a PhD candidate at RMIT University. Conducting his thesis on Multifunctional Tufted Composites, San’s research encompasses areas including 3D Reinforced Composites, Tufted Composites, Multifunctional Composites, and Braided Composites. As an aspiring researcher, an internship with APR.Intern and Quickstep provided the perfect opportunity for San to apply advanced research skills to an innovative aerospace project, broadening expertise and strengthening interdisciplinary capabilities.
During the internship, Sam played a pivotal role in the development of Braided Aerostructures, contributing to key areas such as composite design, design for manufacturing, experimental methodologies, and tooling development. This work involved tackling complex technical challenges through innovative braiding technology. The project itself has significant implications for the Australian Unmanned Aerial Vehicle development program, contributing to technological advancements with real-world applications that benefit both the Australian and global aerospace communities.
“Some of the products produced by Quickstep that I had an opportunity to work on was used for many great applications for not only Australian community but also to a different part of the world,” San said.
Reflecting on the experience, San believes the APR.Intern program is an invaluable opportunity for PhD students seeking industry exposure. The internship significantly enriched their resume, expanded their professional network, and provided essential interpersonal skills that are crucial for career advancement.
“The most valuable learning outcome from this project was applying my research skills to tackle a challenging project within a tighter timeframe and with fewer resources compared to my PhD research. This experience helped me adapt to industry constraints while maintaining a structured and effective research approach,” San said.
In the next ten years, San envisions himself as a dedicated researcher and engineer, with this experience serving as a pivotal stepping stone toward their professional and personal goals.
Manatsawee (San) Limprapuwiwattana is a recipient of the DSI subsidy.
Manatsawee (San) Limprapuwiwattana is completing a PhD from RMIT University
