The Leadership Journey Behind SATEC 2024: A Major Aerospace Conference By Shanmuganathan Sridurga, Admin, Singapore Institute of Aerospace Engineers (SIAE), NTU Year 1 Business Student

Dear Students, Imagine having the chance to turn your grand vision into reality for one of the aerospace industry’s most anticipated events. That’s exactly what Shanmuganathan experienced when she had the opportunity and privilege to lead the organisation of the Singapore Aerospace Technology and Engineering Conference (SATEC) 2024, in close collaboration with the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) and their Air Engineering and Logistics Department (AELD) department. From the get-go, her role in orchestrating this prestigious event was far from simple—it was a culmination of months of detailed planning, strategic coordination, and relentless execution. The experience was dynamic and multifaceted, blending creativity, technical skills, and leadership to drive success.
The Crux of Event Management Leading a large-scale event like SATEC 2024 isn’t just about logistics—it’s about solving complex problems in real time. From developing a user-friendly event website and managing the registration workflow to overseeing virtual event platforms, every detail was crucial. As part of the virtual event platform, Shanmuganathan had the opportunity to conceptualise a visually appealing and user-friendly environment, ensuring that virtual booths for sponsors were designed with interactive features to engage participants. These essential skills can be honed through your everyday school activities. Embracing creative problem-solving, paying close attention to detail, and designing engaging presentations can significantly enhance your approach to similar tasks in your future career.
Marketing with Impact Marketing and sponsorship management were critical to the success of SATEC 2024. Using platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram, Shanmuganathan developed content that resonated with the target audience. By tailoring sponsorship packages to meet both the partners' needs and the event’s goals, Shanmuganathan secured valuable partnerships that maximised the event’s visibility and engagement. This not only enhanced the event’s profile but also delivered strong returns on investment, ensuring mutual success for both the sponsors and the event through long-term partnerships. For students, your digital presence is equally important. Building your personal brand and learning to market yourself effectively can make a significant difference in standing out to future employers.
Leadership and Team Management Managing a team of freelancers taught Shanmuganathan a lot about leadership—particularly the balance between empathy and delegation. It’s not just about giving directions; it’s about ensuring every team member feels valued and supported, especially during high-pressure moments. By building strong relationships, maintaining clear communication, and supporting each other through challenges, Shanmuganathan and her team successfully brought SATEC 2024 to life. Whether you’re leading a group project or taking on an internship, the ability to guide others while staying adaptable is a skill that will set you apart. Teamwork is the backbone of every successful venture, and knowing how to motivate and collaborate with others will take you far.
The Power of Adaptability and Critical Thinking No major event goes off without a hitch, and SATEC 2024 was no exception. Shanmuganathan and her team had to adapt to last-minute changes, manage unexpected challenges, and navigate high-pressure situations. These moments sharpened her ability to think critically and remain flexible—skills that are crucial in any fast-paced environment.
Takeaways for Your Career Journey Organising SATEC 2024 was a profound experience that strengthened Shanmuganathan’s leadership skills, enhanced her ability to prioritise tasks, and taught her the importance of adaptability. More importantly, it demonstrated the power of teamwork and perseverance in turning vision into reality. For students like yourself, whether you’re thinking of pursuing a career in aerospace or any other field, the lessons of leadership, adaptability, and creativity are universal. No matter where your career takes you, these skills will serve as the foundation for your success.