The Department of Mechanical Engineering at AISSMS College of Engineering, Pune, has established itself as a pioneer in delivering industry-oriented education through its specialized Mechanical Engineering (Sandwich Pattern) program. The Mechanical Engineering (Sandwich Pattern) program started in 1994 under the Mechanical Engineering Department. Designed to blend strong theoretical foundations with extensive industrial exposure, this four-year degree program integrates one full year of structured in-plant training, making it one of the most dynamic and career-focused mechanical engineering programs. In 2026, the department was honored with the Best Performing Department Award, reflecting its academic strength, industry engagement, and student success.
The Department of Mechanical Engineering consists of 31 teaching faculty members, supported by 06 technical staff and 06 supporting staff. Among the faculty, 15 members hold Ph.D. qualifications, reflecting the department’s strong academic and research background. The department caters to a total student strength of approximately 750 and is headed by Dr. M. R. Phate.
The Mechanical Engineering (Sandwich Pattern) program is coordinated by Dr. Sandeep H. Wankhade, a senior faculty member in the Department of Mechanical Engineering with extensive academic and industry-oriented experience. As the program coordinator, he plays a key role in planning and monitoring the one-year industrial in-plant training of sandwich students, strengthening collaborations with industries, and ensuring that students gain meaningful exposure to real manufacturing environments. Under his guidance, the program maintains strong industry connections, organizes expert lectures by industry professionals, and supports students in developing technical competence, an innovation mindset, and professional skills required for modern mechanical engineering careers. The program is delivered by experienced faculty members who are highly qualified and committed to providing quality education and continuous mentoring. Students also benefit from a strong alumni network, which helps them access industry connections, career guidance, and job opportunities.
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
The Sandwich Pattern course ensures that students not only learn these concepts in classrooms but also experience their practical implementation during industrial training. Exposure to live production environments, CNC systems, automation setups, quality systems, and process optimization makes students industry-ready from day one.
The hallmark of the program is its one-year industrial in-plant training, structured in the final year (7 and 8 semesters). During the first phase, students gain exposure to industrial work culture, organizational structures, manufacturing processes, quality systems, and production planning. In the second phase, students preferably continue in the same organization to undertake their Final Year Industrial Project, ensuring continuity and deeper engagement. Students are exposed to industrial design, manufacturing tools, quality systems, material handling, and operation planning during training. This sustained industry interaction builds professional confidence, communication skills, and technical expertise.
Students appear for University Oral Examinations conducted jointly by an internal faculty guide and an external industrial expert. Additionally, they complete self-study theory papers prescribed by the university. The training also satisfies the provisions of the Apprenticeship Act, 1973, enhancing the professional credibility of graduates.
Department Achievements and Milestones
- Best Performing Department Award 2026
- Strong academic results and university ranks
- More than 200+ industry collaborations
- Structured placement support for in-plant training
- Attractive stipend opportunities for sandwich students
- Organizes regular industry expert lectures
The department consistently demonstrates excellence in academics, industry networking, and student mentoring.
Faculty members undertake funded research projects and consultancy assignments in collaboration with industries. The department has signed multiple Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to promote: Sponsored research, Industrial problem-solving, Product development, Testing and validation services. Through consultancy work, students gain exposure to real-world engineering challenges and industry problem statements.
The department takes pride in its entrepreneurial culture. Sandwich students Dhananjay Dalvi and Om Jain have successfully launched their startup, Karenest Innovations Private Limited, demonstrating the innovative spirit nurtured by the department.
The department emphasizes experiential learning through:
- Well-equipped laboratories with state-of-the-art facilities
- Metrology and Quality Control Labs
- Research-oriented project development
Assignments during industrial training (minimum three per phase) ensure structured learning and documentation. Final-year students undertake industrial projects along with assignments, ensuring balanced academic and practical development.
University Rankers Felicitation
Faculty Visit to Sandwich Trainee Industry (Burckhardt Compression India Pvt. Ltd., Pune)