1 + 100: Insights from JADS’s Engineering Doctorate graduates
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We recently celebrated a significant milestone—the graduation of its 100th Engineering Doctorate (EngD) trainee in Data Science. To mark the occasion, we explored the journeys of two standout alumni: Abel G. Gebresilassie, the very first graduate of the program, and Navoneel Chakrabarty, who completed the journey as its 100th graduate. Their stories illustrate how JADS is more than a program—it’s a launchpad for innovation, personal growth, and professional success.
A journey of firsts
For Abel, being the first EngD graduate was both an honor and a surprise. “To be part of history in such a positive way is beyond exciting,” he shared. His journey into the program wasn’t the conventional path. With a PhD in physics, Abel was looking for a way to step out of academia and into the fast-paced world of applied data science. “I wanted to move beyond theoretical research to tackle real-world challenges,” he said. The EngD program, with its strong industry focus, provided exactly that.
Navoneel’s experience brought a different perspective. As the 100th graduate, he hadn’t anticipated the recognition awaiting him at his graduation ceremony. “It was a complete surprise,” he recalled. His decision to join the program stemmed from a desire to build a career rooted in practical applications of data science. With a background in machine learning and artificial intelligence, and prior experience as a data scientist, he was triggered by the program’s ability to bridge the gap between academia and industry.
The JADS difference: where academia meets industry
What sets the JADS EngD program apart is its hands-on, problem-solving ethos. Unlike traditional doctoral programs that often remain confined to academic research, the EngD trainees take a deep dive into real-world challenges from day one. For Abel, this practical focus was key. “The program taught me to think beyond research papers and algorithms—it was about solving problems that mattered to businesses,” he explained.
Navoneel also saw the value in this approach. Over the course of the two-year program, he worked on three distinct projects with multiple companies, gaining exposure to industries as diverse as high-tech manufacturing and finance. “This constant engagement with industry makes the program unique,” he said. “It’s not just learning—it’s doing.”
Adapting with the times
The EngD program has continuously adapted to meet industry needs. Early projects were short and fast-paced, with five-to-six-week modules that introduced company challenges but left little room for deep exploration. Today, extended 12-week projects allow trainees to dive deeper into problems and deliver more comprehensive solutions.
Another enhancement is the structured credit system, requiring trainees to complete academic modules in areas like data visualization and engineering. This ensures graduates not only gain hands-on experience but also strengthen their technical expertise. “It’s a more comprehensive learning experience now,” Navoneel said.