Aurangabad (Bihar) : It is often said that when a person is truly passionate about achieving something in life and is willing to devote all their energy and focus towards that goal, success is not just possible—it becomes inevitable. This age-old saying perfectly describes the journey of Mohammad Shoaib, a young and ambitious individual who has proved that with determination, perseverance, and the right inspiration, no dream is too big to achieve.
Mohammad Shoaib, who currently resides in Shaheen Bagh, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi, has achieved remarkable success in the field of aerospace engineering. His achievements are not just a matter of personal triumph but are also a source of inspiration for the youth of the country. According to Shoaib, the driving force behind his accomplishments has been none other than the former President of India and the globally renowned “Missile Man,” the late Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.
A Passion for Education and Learning
From his early childhood, Mohammad Shoaib exhibited a strong inclination toward academics. He was not just a good student but was known for his exceptional intelligence and curiosity about the world of science and technology. His fascination with machines, aircraft, and space led him to dream of becoming a part of India’s growing aerospace sector.
Throughout his school years, Shoaib excelled academically, earning recognition as a meritorious student. His hard work and passion culminated in his pursuit of higher education in aerospace engineering. He eventually earned a Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, which laid the foundation for his professional career.
While pursuing his education, Shoaib’s exceptional academic performance did not go unnoticed. He was honored by administrative officials for his achievements and contributions. But beyond these accolades, the guiding light of his journey was the inspiring life and teachings of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, whose words and actions instilled in Shoaib the belief that India’s youth can shape the future of the nation through innovation, integrity, and dedication.
Career Journey and Milestones
After completing his education, Mohammad Shoaib successfully secured a position as a Project Engineer/Project Officer (P.E./P.O.) at Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), a premier organization under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. This organization is involved in the manufacturing of advanced defense equipment, including missile systems like Agni and Akash, as well as various types of ammunition and defense equipment essential for national security.
Shoaib takes immense pride in being a part of Bharat Dynamics, as it allows him to contribute directly to India’s defense capabilities. Working in such a highly specialized and strategic organization is a testament to his hard work, technical expertise, and commitment to excellence.
Inspiration from the Missile Man
When asked about the source of his motivation, Mohammad Shoaib humbly credits his parents—his father, Abdul Wahab, and his mother, Kehkashan Bano—for their unwavering support and guidance. He says, “Whatever I have achieved today, I owe it to my parents. They have been my pillars of strength, and their belief in me has kept me going even during challenging times.”
However, Shoaib also emphasizes that the larger inspiration behind his career and life goals has been the teachings of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who remains one of India’s most beloved scientists and leaders. Dr. Kalam’s life story, rising from humble beginnings to become a world-renowned scientist and the President of India, deeply resonated with Shoaib. He often quotes Dr. Kalam’s famous words:
“Dream, dream, dream. Dreams transform into thoughts, and thoughts result in action.”
For Shoaib, these words were not just inspirational quotes; they were guiding principles. He decided to dedicate himself to the field of aerospace engineering—a domain that Dr. Kalam had pioneered in India. Shoaib’s journey from a curious student to a defense engineer reflects the same spirit of perseverance and innovation that Dr. Kalam embodied.
Professional Affiliations and Recognitions
Apart from his professional role at Bharat Dynamics, Mohammad Shoaib is actively involved with various technical organizations and councils. He is a member of the All India Council of Technical Skills and Development (AICTSD), which is dedicated to promoting technical education and innovation across the country. He is also an Associate Member of the Institution of Engineers (India) [IEI], one of the oldest and most respected engineering institutions in the nation.
Shoaib’s excellence has been recognized on multiple occasions. Notably, in 2025, he was honored with the Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Bharatiya Ratna Award, an accolade that holds special significance for him, given that Dr. Kalam has been his lifelong inspiration.
Success in Competitive Examinations
Before achieving his current position, Shoaib had also cleared several competitive examinations, demonstrating his versatility and intellectual capabilities. He successfully qualified for prestigious exams such as JEE (Joint Entrance Examination), Indian Institute of Maritime Studies, and the Indian Institute of Aeronautical Sciences, among others. These successes highlight his consistent dedication and the breadth of his technical knowledge.
Recent Achievement – Selection in Cochin Shipyard
Recently, Mohammad Shoaib added yet another feather to his cap by securing a position as a Project Officer at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), a premier public sector organization under the Government of India. This shipyard plays a vital role in India’s defense sector, specializing in the design and manufacturing of warships, aircraft carriers, and other naval vessels for the Indian Navy.
Cochin Shipyard is known for its cutting-edge technology and engineering excellence. Being selected for a key role in such an organization is a remarkable accomplishment that speaks volumes about Shoaib’s capabilities and expertise. He believes that his role at CSL will allow him to make significant contributions to India’s maritime defense infrastructure.
Lessons from His Journey
When asked about the secret to his success, Shoaib emphasizes three key values: discipline, perseverance, and self-belief. He believes that success is never achieved overnight—it requires years of hard work, learning from failures, and the courage to keep moving forward despite obstacles.
Shoaib also highlights the importance of mentorship and inspiration in one’s life. He believes that every young person should have a role model who can guide them, either directly or through their life’s work. For him, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam played this role. Shoaib often revisits Dr. Kalam’s speeches and books, especially “Wings of Fire” and “Ignited Minds,” which have been instrumental in shaping his thought process and career goals.
A Message to the Youth
Mohammad Shoaib is not just focused on his career; he is also passionate about inspiring the next generation of engineers and innovators. His message to the youth of India is simple yet powerful:
“Never underestimate the power of your dreams. The world belongs to those who dare to think differently and work tirelessly to turn their ideas into reality. Success may take time, but if your efforts are consistent and your intentions are pure, nothing can stop you from achieving greatness.”
He also encourages students to develop skills beyond academics, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork. According to him, these skills are essential for succeeding in highly competitive fields like aerospace and defense engineering.
Role of Family and Community Support
Behind every success story lies a foundation of strong support and encouragement. For Shoaib, his family has been that foundation. His parents, despite facing their own challenges, ensured that he had access to quality education and opportunities. They constantly motivated him to aim higher and instilled in him the values of hard work and humility.
Moreover, Shoaib acknowledges the role of his community in shaping his personality. Growing up in a close-knit environment, he learned the importance of compassion, collaboration, and giving back to society. These values continue to guide him in his personal and professional life.
The Road Ahead
Looking ahead, Mohammad Shoaib aims to continue advancing in the field of aerospace and defense technologies. His long-term goal is to contribute to India’s vision of becoming a self-reliant and globally recognized leader in the defense sector. He hopes to work on cutting-edge projects that not only strengthen India’s security but also inspire future generations of scientists and engineers.
Shoaib is also exploring opportunities to mentor young students who aspire to build careers in aerospace and defense. He believes that sharing knowledge and experiences is the best way to honor the legacy of pioneers like Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.
As Shoaib himself puts it, “I am just getting started. There is so much more to learn, achieve, and give back to the nation. My journey is a tribute to my parents and to the great Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, whose life has taught me that no dream is too big if your passion and dedication are unshakable.”
Report: Ajay Kumar Pandey.
