Can you briefly introduce yourself?
I’m Achyuth Ravilla, and I earned my PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering at Portland State University in 2024. Across my studies, I combined engineering, economics, and environmental science to develop sustainable solutions for energy and infrastructure systems. I’m currently a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Maine.
In layman’s terms, what do power engineers do?
Engineers in my field look at how new technologies affect both people and the planet. Instead of focusing only on how to build something, we also ask: Is it affordable? Is it environmentally friendly? Can it help us move toward a more sustainable future?
For example, in my PhD I studied solar panels and how they can be used in different ways, like producing clean electricity or even making hydrogen fuel, and measured their costs and environmental impacts. Currently, I’m applying the same approach to materials and infrastructure, such as studying the life cycle of 3D-printed composites and evaluating the long-term costs of bridge systems.
In short, my field helps decision-makers choose technologies that are not only technically possible but also economically practical and environmentally responsible.
What led you to study Power Engineering at Maseeh College?
I have a background in environmental and sustainability engineering, with a focus on evaluating how new technologies impact both the economy and the environment. I chose Maseeh College because it offered the perfect environment to study sustainability at the intersection of engineering, economics, and the environment. It gave me the chance to work on real-world research in renewable energy and sustainable technologies.
Do you have any advice or words of wisdom for current Maseeh College students?
Stay curious, collaborate often, build strong problem-solving skills, and explore how technology can make the world better. Follow your passion and don’t be afraid to experiment.
How did Maseeh College help you prepare for your career?
Working with my advisor, Dr. Ilke Celik, was the highlight of my time at Maseeh College. She encouraged me to think across disciplines and explore creative solutions in sustainability research.
Beyond that, Maseeh College gave me strong technical skills, real-world research experience, and the ability to connect engineering with sustainability, all of which prepared me to tackle complex challenges in my career.
What are you most hopeful about in terms of engineering and/or future innovations in your field?
I’m hopeful that future engineering innovations will make clean energy and sustainable materials more efficient, affordable, and widely accessible, and will help to address global environmental challenges.