Mechanical Engineering Department in Pune | AISSMS College of Engineering – Courses, Research, Industry Exposure & Achievements

The Department of Mechanical Engineering was established in 1992. The department runs two undergraduate programs, viz. Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering (Sandwich), and PG program in Design Engineering as a specialization. The department also runs a research Centre leading to a PhD Program. The department has 31 Teaching Faculty members, 03 Technical staff, and 06 supporting staff. A total of 15 faculty members have a PhD qualification. Total student strength of 750. The department is headed by Dr. M. R. Phate.

The department has well-equipped laboratories with high-end software used in industry. Our students bring laurels by succeeding in various national and international technical competitions. We have a strong culture of encouraging students to engage with real-life challenges through activities such as BAJA, SUPRA, GO KART, EFFICYCLE, and AERO-DESIGN. The department has active student chapters of professional bodies like SAE, IE(I), IMechE, ISHRAE, and FPSI.

The Academic Year 2025-26 has been a landmark year for the Department of Mechanical Engineering, marked by academic excellence, impactful research contributions, industry collaboration, faculty development initiatives, and meaningful social engagement. With a strong commitment to quality education and continuous improvement, the department has successfully strengthened its academic ecosystem while fostering innovation, research culture, and professional development.

Mechanical Engineering today is at the forefront of technological transformation. The department actively aligns its curriculum and industrial training with emerging trends such as:

  • Industry 4.0 and Smart Manufacturing
  • Automation, Robotics, and Mechatronics
  • Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing)
  • Electric Vehicles and Sustainable Mobility
  • Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Storage
  • Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing
  • Advanced Materials and Metal Additive Manufacturing

Department Achievements and Milestones

  • Best Performing Department Award 2026
  • Strong academic results and university ranks
  • More than 40+ active industry collaborations
  • Structured placement support for in-plant training
  • Attractive stipend opportunities for students
  • Organizes regular industry expert lectures

One of the most distinguished achievements of the year was the outstanding success of Dr. N. N. Gotkhindikar, who secured a position among the Top 5% aspirants in the NPTEL examination and was awarded a Gold Medal in November 2025. This accomplishment reflects not only individual dedication but also the department’s culture of academic rigor and lifelong learning.

The department’s active participation in international academic forums further enhanced its academic profile. Dr. S. H. Wankhade represented the institution at the ICTIEE Conference held from 8–10 January 2026 at GITAM. Participation in such globally recognized conferences promotes academic exchange, innovative teaching practices, and research collaboration.

In addition, Dr. Wankhade strengthened international academic partnerships through his association with the Indo Universal Collaboration for Engineering Education Foundation, contributing to collaborative initiatives in engineering education.

Adding to the department’s research credentials, Dr. M. R. Dahake received the prestigious Best Paper Award at the IETE & ISF Congress organized by Adani University, Ahmedabad. This recognition underscores the department’s emphasis on high-quality research and scholarly excellence.

Best Performing  Department Award 2025-26.

Research Lab: Tribological testing start-up.

Four-ball tester, KRL shear stability tester, Image acquisition system, and Digital Microscope.

Engineering Today Mechanical department events 2025-26 [Escape room, radium striker, Scavenger hunt]

TRIZ Chapter collaboration with Birmingham City University

A bearing test rig was developed as a part of an overseas consulting project from Demag Cranes, Germany.

Faculty Development and Professional Growth

The department believes that empowered faculty members create empowered students. During the academic year, several faculty development initiatives were organized to enhance teaching effectiveness and technical expertise.

Dr. A. V. Waghmare and Dr. S. H. Wankhede conducted a three-day Faculty Development Program on Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt. The program was funded by Binghamton University, USA, and focused on quality improvement methodologies, process optimization, and industrial problem-solving techniques. The FDP equipped faculty members with practical tools to integrate industry-oriented concepts into classroom teaching.

Furthermore, Dr. S. V. Chaitanya organized a two-day workshop on Career Opportunities as an Entrepreneur. The workshop encouraged students to explore innovation, startup ecosystems, and self-employment opportunities, fostering entrepreneurial thinking and leadership skills.

 

Resource person at outside organizations:

Dr. Wankhade and Dr. Phate served as resource persons delivering valuable guidance outside organizations.

Expert talks arranged by the department:

MoUs signed by the department:

Strengthening Industry Collaboration

Bridging the gap between academia and industry is essential for producing industry-ready engineers. The department strengthened its industry network by signing Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with reputed organizations, including Avinya Technologies, M Cad Solutions, Pratyag Technocart Pvt. Ltd., Stead Solve Design & Manufacturing Solutions LLP, and Pritomatic Technologies India Pvt. Ltd., Pune.

These MoUs facilitate internships, live projects, industrial training programs, guest lectures, and placement opportunities. Such collaborations ensure that students gain practical exposure and hands-on experience aligned with current industry requirements.

Industrial visits arranged by the department:

Students achievements

Career Guidance and Student Empowerment

The department consistently focuses on enhancing students’ employability skills. Dr. S. A. Ansari conducted structured Group Discussion (GD), Personal Interview (PI), and aptitude training sessions for BE and TE students in Mechanical. These sessions significantly improved students’ communication skills, confidence, and interview readiness, preparing them for campus recruitment processes.

By integrating technical knowledge with soft skill development, the department ensures holistic student growth and career preparedness.

 

Social Responsibility and Community Engagement

Beyond academic and professional achievements, the department demonstrated its commitment to social responsibility. Dr. M. R. Phate and Dr. M. R. Dahake organized a visit and grocery donation drive at Swaminiwas Vruddhashram (Old Age Home). This initiative reflects the department’s values of empathy, compassion, and community service, encouraging students and faculty to contribute positively to society.

Alumni Interaction