Alexander Santos will choose between cars and planes

By Lina Shoumarova

Now that he holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical and industrial engineering, Alexander Santos has to choose between his two loves, the automobile industry and aerospace.

On one hand, he is fascinated by the cutting-edge technologies of modern car and engine design. He would like to make a contribution to the race to design and build a more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly vehicle.

On the other hand, his interest in the aerospace industry was kindled by his involvement in Concordia’s Institute for Aerospace Design and Innovation (CIADI) during his final year of study.

He is currently taking a month-long break in Portugal to consider his options.

“When I come back I will either begin the employment search process, or perhaps go back to school in January for a master’s. Let’s just say I will do lots of thinking while I am away!” he said in an e-mail interview.

As part of CIADI, Alexander worked on an inventory velocity project for Pratt and Whitney Canada. His job was to develop and improve “processes that would accelerate the turn-around time of engines in the repair and overhaul facility as well as to accelerate the turnover of inventory.”

This first real work experience helped him understand better the world of aerospace. “One of my major accomplishments was developing a shortage of parts list that is currently being used across the entire network.”

It has been a rewarding final year for Santos. As CTR informed you in our issue of April 21, he received a Gold Medal from the Canadian Society for Mechanical Engineering (CSME) as well as a Certificate for Undergraduate Student Involvement. For this success he credits the work of all of his colleagues at CSME.

“Without my committee, nothing would have been possible,” he said. “I would like to thank my entire society for their superb effort.”

From his experience at Concordia, Alexander will remember “the endless nights of assignments and studying,” the CIADI project and his involvement in extracurricular activities.

“Knowing that I was able to make a contribution to student life at Concordia and being able to reach out to my fellow engineering students, regardless of what year of study they were in, is one of the best memories I will take with me when I graduate in June,” Alexander said. “It has been quite the ride!”