Jasraj Chahal

About me

I was born/grew up in: I was born and raised in Montreal, Quebec

I now live in: I still live in Montreal, Quebec

I completed my training/education at: Mechanical engineering with a concentration in aeronautics, McGill University

What I do at work

Depending on what I’m working on, my day may consist of a range of activities. Sometimes I will be working on a control system design or on procedures to test a control system. At other times, I may be involved in analyzing the data from testing. Sometimes I will be working with a customer to troubleshoot an issue they are having with a control system. I use mostly math, turbomachinery, and coding skills. I do most of my work on basic Microsoft office. However, I do use some computer tools to analyze data.

When I discover the control system is not working as intended either at the customer or during development, I have to investigate the root cause of this issue. I also have to make decisions on how to proceed in correcting the issue. I use my STEM skills to make these decisions, as the corrective action has to solve the issue and done in the most efficient manner. For the most part, I work in a team. We have to coordinate with each other on the tasks to be completed. This helps make sure that we don’t repeat tasks. Communication is key to ensure a team is efficient.

My career path is

In high school, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do. I was fascinated by cars, so I thought I would design cars one day. That’s why I went into mechanical engineering in university. Once in university, I started taking some aeronautics classes as electives and I really enjoyed them. I decided to take more aeronautics classes and ended up with a concentration in this area. I was fortunate enough to have gotten the opportunity to work in aerospace industry. I have made many mistakes on the job. But I’ve learned is that there’s nothing wrong with making mistakes. It’s important to address them as soon as possible and to learn from that mistake.

I am motivated by

My favorite part of my job is when I troubleshoot an issue on the control system. It’s like solving a puzzle. I find it very satisfying to figure out the root cause of the issue.

How I affect peoples’ lives

The control system is like the brain of the engine. Without it, the engine would not be able to function. This applies not only to aircraft engines, but it also applies to smaller engines like engines in a car. Since the control system is a critical aspect of the aircraft engine, I have to make sure it works as intended to ensure the safety of the crew and passengers inside the aircraft.

Outside of work I

I love to ride my bike, to go swimming, play badminton, and stay active. After work, I volunteer at a high school in helping the students build a robot for a competition. One a month, I also help out at an Anglican Church in making and handing out food to the homeless in downtown.

My advice to others

Anyone who would like a career in engineering, the work experience is worth more than the grades. So, you should seek any opportunity for extra projects or internships that come your way.