Ashraf’s journey from postgraduate study to employment highlights how practical experience and strong industry connections can shape a successful career. Originally from India, Ashraf completed his Bachelor’s in Electronics and Communication Engineering, where he developed a keen interest in embedded systems and automation. This passion led him to pursue a Master’s in Automotive Engineering at Birmingham City University, focusing on electric vehicles, control systems, and future mobility technologies. Alongside his studies, he also completed certifications in embedded C, MATLAB, and system validation to strengthen his technical skills.
Ashraf first heard about GBSIoT through his professors, who encouraged him to apply for a placement with the Hub. Securing a placement, however, was challenging. “At one point, I had almost lost hope, as I wasn’t getting any opportunities and was preparing to return to India. It was a very difficult phase,” he recalls. The GBSIoT team, led by Mairi Kerin, recognized his potential and provided consistent support. “They believed in me even when I had doubts about myself. They not only helped me grow technically but also created a welcoming and caring environment,” Ashraf explains.
During his placement, Ashraf took on the role of Teaching Assistant and Lab Demonstrator, supporting students with Industry 4.0 systems such as PLCs, sensors, and IoT tools. He also worked on two key projects. The first was his personal Automated Smart Hub (ASH) project, which integrated Node-RED and Python to enable voice and gesture control for PLCs, making industrial systems more intuitive. The second was a collaborative digital twin project with WorldSkills UK, simulating smart factory operations using CIROS software.
“These projects gave me practical exposure to Industry 4.0 technologies and strengthened both my technical and communication skills,” Ashraf says. Representing GBSIoT at the WorldSkills UK Finals was a particularly memorable experience, giving him the opportunity to apply his knowledge in a competitive, real-world setting.
The hands-on experience at the Hub equipped Ashraf with both technical and professional skills. He emphasizes that GBSIoT helped him prepare for his career, providing practical exposure and building his confidence to tackle real-world challenges.
After completing his course, Ashraf secured a role as Customer Support Engineer at PowTechnology, an employer that GBSIoT connected with through an Innovate UK project, where he is gaining experience with industrial IoT systems and customer-focused solutions.
Reflecting on his journey, Ashraf notes: “My experience at GBSIoT was very positive and supportive. It gave me the opportunities, knowledge, and confidence I needed to succeed.”
