The Industrial Chemical Engineering Technology (Teknologi Rekayasa Kimia Industri / TRKI) Study Program at Universitas Diponegoro’s Vocational School continues to innovate in preparing its graduates to face the dynamics of modern industry. Through the vocational higher education revitalization program, the Industrial Chemical Engineering Technology study program has successfully produced highly competent graduates, one of whom is Muhammad Zaki Riadhus Shalihin. Despite not having officially graduated or received his diploma, Zaki has already secured a career at a Chinese multinational company.
As a UNDIP Vocational School graduate with a GPA of 3.86, Zaki now works as a QC Testing Specialist and Team Leader for Metal Detection at PT. LBM Energi Baru Indonesia—an achievement he considers a personal milestone. “It is an incredible honor for me to set foot in a country I had never imagined working in,” he shared. When he was hired, Zaki only submitted a Certificate of Graduation, as his diploma and other documents were still pending the next graduation ceremony.
The Head of the Industrial Chemical Engineering Technology Study Program, Mohamad Endy Julianto, S.T., M.T., explained that the graduates are prepared through a modified dual-system education program, teaching factory, Project-Based Learning, retooling, and collaborations with industry and Professional Certification Institutions. “As a result, our students attract industry attention even before graduating,” Endy stated.
PT. LBM Energi Baru Indonesia is a multinational company specializing in lithium ferro phosphate (LiFePO4) battery components for electric vehicles, operating under the Lopal Group China. “Lithium-ion batteries are rapidly growing, especially with government programs supporting the transition from fuel-powered to electric vehicles. This phenomenon is an excellent starting point for my career,” Zaki explained.
Before starting his job, Zaki underwent a three-month training program (October 2023–January 2024) in Sichuan, China, where he learned about LFP quality testing, laboratory management, and workplace culture.
In an interview, Zaki emphasized that his active involvement in extracurricular activities during college played a significant role in his career success. By participating in student organizations and faculty-led research projects, he earned seven patents and multiple competency certifications:
Four Simple Patents:
- Patent No. S00202301133– Partial Hydrolysis of Sorghum Starch (Sorghum bicolor L.) Using Acetic Acid Catalyst with Microwave Assistance
- Patent No. S00202301134– Production Process of Maltodextrin through Partial Hydrolysis of Gembili Tuber Starch (Dioscorea esculenta L.) Using Acetic Acid Catalyst and Microwave Assistance
- Patent No. S00202301530– Partial Hydrolysis Process of Canna Tuber Starch (Canna edulis Kerr) Using Acetic Acid Catalyst and Microwave
- Patent No. S00202307927– Hand Sanitizer Composition from Rice Waste
Three Intellectual Property Certificates:
- EC00202299439
- EC00202348594
- EC00202359719
“One of my most memorable college experiences was participating in research and faculty-led community service projects. I traveled to the Gambung region, Bandung City, to research tea. I also worked on entrepreneurship projects in Semarang for six months, fully funded by the Ministry of Education and Culture,” he recalled.
“All of these experiences serve as important preparation for entering the workforce, especially in highly competitive multinational companies. Additionally, my secret to success is my parents’ prayers and consistent effort—always striving to take a step forward each day, even if it’s just one,” added Zaki.
He also encouraged his juniors at UNDIP, “Make the most of your time in college. Get involved in student organizations, research, and competitions. And always stay motivated in job hunting—it’s better to be overwhelmed by multiple job offers than to have no options at all!”
Zaki’s journey is proof of the success of the Vocational Program at UNDIP in producing high-caliber graduates ready to compete in the global job market. His story aligns with UNDIP’s ongoing commitment to advancing vocational education in Indonesia. (Endy-SV; ed DHW)
