Aerospace engineer wins UHI Alumni of the Year award

The University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) is pleased to announce Nurina Sharmin as the recipient of its 2024 Alumni of the Year award. This award recognises her professional success, her dedication to her community, and continued support for UHI as an alumni ambassador. Nurina was presented with the award by Vicki Nairn, UHI Principal and Vice-Chancellor, during an online ceremony in December.

An Integration Engineer at BAE Systems, Nurina graduated from UHI Perth in 2020 with a BEng (Hons) in Aircraft Engineering and Air Transport Operations. During her studies, she held leadership roles, including Vice President for Education and Engagement with the Highlands and Islands Student Association and student member on the UHI Perth Board of Management. Building on her qualifications, she later completed a master’s in aerospace engineering at the University of Leeds.

Nurina has made significant contributions to the aviation industry, focusing on sustainable aviation solutions and innovation. Her work includes developing a Skeletal Kinetic Mechanism for alternative aviation fuels and researching bamboo as a sustainable material for flight infrastructure.

Beyond her professional achievements, Nurina has had a strong impact in her community. She led the Falcon 2 project (2022–23), funded by Boeing, and the UK Department for Transport, which involved students in designing an inclusive flight simulator.

She is a member of the Women in Aviation Aerospace and Space Committee, and Chair of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers West Yorkshire Young Members. Nurina also serves as an Aviation Ambassador for the UK Department for Transport, promoting careers and pathways within aviation and aerospace. She is a school governor with the Trinity Multi-Academy Trust, overseeing a primary school and supporting local education and social mobility, and is also a Civilian Instructor with the Royal Airforce Air Cadets. 

Nurina has remained closely connected to UHI since her graduation, serving as an alumni ambassador and supporting prospective and current students.

Speaking about receiving the award, Nurina said:

“Receiving the 2024 Alumni of the Year Award is a great honour. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at university – every moment mattered and made a difference to my life. UHI opened many doors for me, and I’m grateful for the support I received. It is an honour to give back as an alumni ambassador and help current and future students.”

Alison Wilson, Director of Economic Development and Advancement at UHI, said:

“Nurina is a fantastic example of the success and impact our graduates can achieve. Her accomplishments in aerospace, her contributions to her community, and her ongoing relationship with UHI make her a worthy recipient of this year’s award.”