UCL graduate wins award for sustainable data centre research in Indonesia

Whildan Pakartipangi, a recent graduate of the MSc Telecommunications with Business programme, shares his journey from Indonesia to London and his award-winning research on green data centres.

After six years as a network construction supervisor in Indonesia, Whildan Pakartipangi sought to elevate his expertise to a more strategic level. The unique combination of technical and business aspects offered by UCL's MSc Telecommunications with Business programme drew him to London, where he embarked on a transformative academic journey that culminated in an award-winning dissertation on sustainable data centres in Indonesia.

What attracted you to the Telecommunications with Business MSc programme at UCL?

I wanted to develop expertise at a more strategic level after working in an operational role. UCL's programme uniquely combines both technical and business aspects of the telecommunications industry, which is rare to find elsewhere. I was fortunate to receive a scholarship from my employer, Telkom Indonesia, to pursue this degree.

How did you find the transition from Indonesia to London?

The transition was challenging, particularly adapting to the weather and the cost of living. However, UCL provided useful advice on managing finances as an international student, which helped me navigate the challenges of living in a new city.

What I really love about living in London is the variety of activities the city offers. There are so many historical sites, museums, and parks, many of which are free to visit. Plus, the entertainment options are fantastic! I’ve attended concerts and seen theatre performances. Honestly, one year is not enough to explore everything London has to offer. And I must say, the public transportation system is both reliable and efficient.

How would you rate the quality of teaching and resources provided in the programme?

The quality of teaching and resources was excellent. Professors communicated clearly and encouraged active participation. Course materials were made available in advance, allowing for preparation. The business modules featured guest lecturers from industry giants like BT, Vodafone, and AWS, providing valuable real-world insights alongside theoretical concepts.

UCL also provides career services to support postgraduate students seeking employment after graduation. They also offer soft skills workshops where alumni share their experiences in the working environment. I found these workshops incredibly valuable and plan to apply what I learned when I resume my career.

What was your experience of networking opportunities at UCL?

The programme organised social events after each business module, allowing us to connect with peers and lecturers in informal settings. At these events, I had the opportunity to socialise with my peers and lecturers over dinner at a restaurant or while playing games such as shuffleboard and bowling.

A notable event brought together alumni working in various sectors beyond telecommunications such as PwC, Salesforce, and IDC. They shared how they advanced to their current positions and how the MSc programme contributed to their career development, providing an opportunity to learn from their success stories and career progression.

What notable projects or assignments were particularly impactful?

A standout assignment from the Customer Service, Operations, and Planning module required proposing a new 5G-based service for a mobile network operator. This project pushed me to consider both technical and business aspects comprehensively, from target users and market landscape to system architecture and risk management. I proposed a smart hospital service using a 5G private network, aiming to address the shortage of specialist doctors in Indonesia.

You won an award for your dissertation at the Indonesia International Sustainability Forum 2024. How did UCL contribute to this achievement?

The MSc programme provided a strong foundation for my research on green data centres in Indonesia. My supervisor, Prof Clive Poole, arranged a visit to Telehouse London, allowing me to learn about data centre operations firsthand and interview industry professionals. This experience significantly enriched my dissertation. 

The guidance I received gave me the confidence to present my research at the Indonesia International Sustainability Forum 2024, organised by Indonesia’s Coordinating Ministry for Maritime & Investment Affairs. Winning the award for the most impactful research at the event motivated me to make a positive impact on the sustainable development of the telecommunications industry in Indonesia. I am deeply grateful for the support I received from my supervisor and UCL throughout the process.

How do you think the skills and knowledge gained from the MSc programme will benefit your future career?

The programme's blend of technical expertise and business knowledge has equipped me to address both technical and strategic challenges in the telecommunications industry. The emphasis on teamwork, risk assessment, and innovation has refined my ability to collaborate with diverse colleagues and tackle complex challenges. 

Through guest lectures, site visits, and networking events, I gained insights into the practical aspects of telecommunications and built relationships with key industry players. UCL's industry connections and real-world approach have positioned me well for future leadership opportunities at Telkom Indonesia.

What advice would you give to prospective students considering this programme?

Take full advantage of the programme's unique balance between technical knowledge and business acumen. Embrace both aspects, as they're crucial for career growth in this industry. Actively participate in real-world exposure opportunities like guest lectures and industry site visits. Be open to collaboration with peers from diverse backgrounds, as this enhances your teamwork and leadership skills. The programme is intensive, but the support from faculty and the sense of community make it a truly rewarding experience.

Links

Telecommunications with Business MSc
Whildan Pakartipangi on LinkedIn
Dr Clive Poole's research profile