We would like to introduce you to Chris Brunskill, a volunteer from our Satellite Technical Network (TN). Chris studied Electronics with Satellite Engineering at the University of Surrey and earned a PhD in space robotics from the Surrey Space Centre. Chris’s career so far has seen him work on numerous missions, leading for three separate missions on weather mapping, LEO satcoms and SIGINT sensors. He currently runs his own small business providing strategic, engineering and innovation support to businesses developing new technologies for in-space servicing, assembly and manufacturing missions.
Let’s look at Chris’s journey in volunteer leadership which has been nothing short of astronomical.
An Astronomical Journey in Volunteer Leadership
Chris was first introduced to the TN early in his engineering career by a colleague who was already a member of the Satellite Technical Network Committee. Seeing this as a great opportunity to expand his professional network and gain valuable experience, Chris quickly became an active member. Over the years, he took on the role of Chair, leading the committee and developing its engagement plan.
Later, Chris joined the Communities Resourcing Committee (CRC), where he contributed at a strategic level and further honed his governance skills. He played a key role in redeveloping processes for assessing and approving key roles on community committees and worked with IET staff to develop delivery strategies for Local and Technical Networks.
Currently, Chris sits on the Technical Networks Communities Committee (TNCC), providing support and guidance to ensure the success of TNs' delivery programs. He has also been involved in several working groups, studying the technical scope of international Local Networks and developing new terms of reference for consistent, high-quality engagements.
Capturing the Cosmos: Showcasing the Satellite TN at the UK Space Conference
One of Chris's favourite projects was creating a series of videos covering the UK Space Conference. Leveraging his network, he set up interviews, captured footage of demonstrations, and highlighted the value of engineering in the space sector. This project, supported by the IET staff team, resulted in some of the most highly engaged video content produced by the IET at the time.
Rocketing My Career: The Positive Impact of Volunteering with the IET
Volunteering with the IET has been crucial to Chris's career success. It has kept his technical knowledge up to date and helped him build a comprehensive industry network. These experiences have provided him with a strategic advantage in making important career decisions and understanding the evolving space sector.
Connecting Stars: Engineering Together for a Brighter Tomorrow
For Chris, engineering is about people and the impact of their work on daily lives. Volunteering with the IET has allowed him to build relationships with like-minded individuals, improving collaboration and ensuring their work positively changes society.
Thank you, Chris, for sharing your volunteering journey with IET Communities.
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